Chock Chapple's PSA scare forces surgery after Golden Bachelorette win

Chock Chapple, the 62‑year‑old winner of ABC’s first Golden Bachelorette season, revealed on August 11 that he had just had his prostate removed. The announcement came in a short Instagram video filmed at his Wichita, Kansas home with fiancée Joan Vassos, 63.

Chapple explained that a series of medical tests following a cancer scare led him to make the decision.

He said the elevated PSA readings and subsequent biopsies prompted surgery, underscoring how early screening can catch potential problems before they become life‑threatening. The video aired on Tuesday, August 11, and quickly attracted the attention of fans who had followed the couple’s romance since the show.

## Background & Context

Chapple began detailing his medical journey by stating, “Elevated PSA. Biopsy, MRI, another biopsy. Turned aggressive.

Last Wednesday I had my prostate removed.” He added that a blood test performed after he left The Golden Bachelorette had flagged an elevated PSA level. The test’s findings were monitored for several weeks, but the PSA kept climbing, which prompted him to opt for surgical removal.

He also shared personal motivations: “Lost my mother to cancer. I know what’s at stake. My son asked how much time I wanted with my grandkids, and that made the decision easy.

Get it removed. Be around. For them.

For Joan, for the rest of her life.” Chapple stressed the importance of early detection: “Guys, get tested. Have your PSA checked. Early is everything.”

Despite the procedure, Chapple remained upbeat about future plans. He confirmed that a trip to Europe is still on for the end of August and that he has been cleared to travel. “Trip to Europe is still on for the end of August.

Cleared to travel, and I’m ready!” he posted.

## What People Are Saying

In the same video, Chapple offered a candid look at his recovery: “Recovery’s been really rough, I will admit, I’ve had a number of surgeries and this one’s a little unique, but I’m glad I had it done.” He expressed gratitude for the support he’s received from Vassos.

“Joan’s been here taking care of me, cooking, and now I have the cleanest refrigerator in the world and I’ve eaten really good. Our goal is to put 20 pounds on me,” he said before Vassos chimed in.

Vassos praised his bravery, noting, “He’s a brave guy. He’s actually a really good patient. He surprised me because he’s had a couple of colds around me and he acts like a baby.” She added that she wants to keep him around for the rest of her life, echoing Chapple’s commitment to his family.

The couple’s story began in 2024 when they met on the inaugural season of The Golden Bachelorette. They later proposed on a beach, cementing their relationship amid public scrutiny. Vassos lives in Maryland while Chapple resides in Wichita, yet the couple continues to navigate their life together from different states.

## What Happens Next

Chapple’s recent surgery marks a new chapter in his health journey, but he remains optimistic about his recovery. He has been cleared for travel and is preparing for the upcoming European vacation that he and Vassos have scheduled for late August.

The couple continues to focus on maintaining their health and supporting each other, with Chapple emphasizing the importance of early PSA testing for all men.

As they count down to their trip, fans will be watching closely to see how Chapple’s health progresses and whether his experience will inspire others to get screened. For now, the Golden Bachelorette winner is on the road to recovery, determined to stay with his family and friends for years to come.