VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — A Moyock man who discovered he had leukemia because he went to the doctor for a spider bite has died, but his family is making sure his legacy lives on.
Bobby Sipka was in remission when 10 On Your Side interviewed him in December 2025 at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, having spent more than 40 days in the hospital. He was a ray of light, and every nurse and staff member adored him. He told 10 On Your Side about all the times he wanted to give up, but was constantly uplifted by the staff at Sentara Virginia Beach. When we met him, he was a grateful, optimistic, energetic and humble human being.
NC man grateful for spider bite that led to leukemia discovery
Sadly, the cancer came back after the new year. Doctors tried everything they could, but Sipka died Feb. 21.
Sipka’s parents were members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 4344 out of Smith Mountain Lake. The organization has a cancer foundation, and as a way of saying thank you to the staff who took care of Sipka, it provided a $5,000 grant to the 2 South Oncology Nursing Team at Sentara Virginia Beach Hospital. The money can only be used for certain things like research, equipment or supplies. Family members say it could be used for more comfortable sofas for loved ones staying with patients, a refrigerator to keep food for long-term patients, or another ultrasound machine, among other things…