Dr. Mehmet Oz has a message of support for "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek, who is heading back for another round of chemotherapy after suffering a setback in his battle with pancreatic cancer.
The host of "The Dr. Oz Show" said in an interview with Access Hollywood that Trebek was "one of the bravest men out there" who is "strong enough" to overcome his illness.
"I don't think he's putting a brave front on. I think he's made peace that he has a big battle," Oz continued. "It's not a wind sprint, it's a marathon. And he's going to keep his eyes looking forward and look for the light."
Trebek announced his cancer diagnosis earlier this year, and by August he seemed to be doing exceedingly well after undergoing a long round of chemotherapy.
He returned to taping the 35th season of "Jeopardy!" and doctors were feeling positive about his results, but a sudden change in his condition now means that Trebek, who turned 79 in July, is headed back for more chemotherapy.
Despite his health concerns, Trebek told Good Morning America on Tuesday that he would continue to host "Jeopardy."
"As long as I can walk out and greet the audience and the contestants and run the game, I'm happy. And it's no different than last year or the year before," he said.
It is Trebek's solid work ethic that inspires Oz.
"I've always adored Alex Trebek. He's one of the people I look to for mentorship," he told Access Hollywood, adding that his friend was also one of the wisest men he knew for "not giving up his day job, by thriving, by serving others, and by keeping engaged in the world."
The key to overcoming illness is to "keep fighting through difficult times," Oz added. "So no matter how bad his illness may get, he'll be strong enough to overcome it — be stronger than he would have been if he had given up his job."