ONCE, TWICE, THREE TIMES A HERO: Or something like that: “It really can’t be both, can it? That Mr. Edwards would have been heroic for dropping out, and that he’s also a hero for carrying on?”

UPDATE: Reader Larry Stamper emails:

While these assertions of heroism may seem contradictory, you do see a wide range of reactions by the families of cancer victims. Often these reactions are called courageous by those that care about them, though one case may seem at odds with another. It’s just that in this case the same persons are involved. I think the thing to get out of this is that dealing with cancer requires courage, and people who care will find a way encourage them.

Good point. It’s just the ability of commentators to turn on a rhetorical dime that he’s making fun of.