Pittsburgh Teacher Returns to Classroom After Cancer Battle
A Canon-McMillan educator is back in the classroom following three years of intensive cancer treatment.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Cancer
Fifth-grade teacher Emily Di Cocco has returned to her classroom at Canon-McMillan after a three-year absence following a diagnosis of a grade 3 astrocytoma brain tumor. She resumed her teaching duties after receiving an invitation from her former principal in December 2025.
Why it matters
Her return marks a significant personal milestone after undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to remove the tumor. She continues to advocate for patients through her work with the Allegheny Health Network and her active social media presence.
Doctors performed minimally invasive surgery to remove all physical evidence of the grade 3 astrocytoma tumor. The patient is currently managing her recovery while maintaining a social media following of 24,000.
The players
Emily Di Cocco
She is a fifth-grade teacher at Canon-McMillan who also serves as a cancer patient ambassador at Allegheny Health Network.
Canon-McMillan
This is the school district in the Pittsburgh area where Emily Di Cocco is employed as a teacher.
Allegheny Health Network
This is the medical provider that performed the surgery to remove the brain tumor and where Di Cocco currently acts as a patient ambassador.
The details
After experiencing a seizure three years ago, Di Cocco left the classroom to undergo a rigorous medical regimen of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Although neurosurgeons successfully removed the tumor, medical professionals have indicated that the cancer will return, requiring Di Cocco to undergo regular brain scans.
Timeline
Three years ago, Di Cocco experienced a seizure and left the classroom.
In December 2025, Di Cocco received a text to return to teaching.
In October 2026, this article was published.
The Big Picture
This story follows a pattern set by the Allegheny Health Network patient ambassador program by highlighting how survivors use their experiences to support others. It illustrates the role of community-based support networks in the long-term recovery process for cancer survivors.
The story highlights the ongoing necessity for regular brain scans following the successful removal of an astrocytoma tumor. It serves as a reminder for patients of the importance of maintaining consistent follow-up care as part of a long-term recovery strategy.
The takeaway
Maintaining a strong support system and professional advocacy work can aid in the emotional recovery process for those returning to work after a serious illness. Patients should prioritize their regular screening schedules as recommended by their oncology teams.
Further reading
For more information on local support resources, visit the Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CBS News.
