NBA’s First Openly Gay Player Announces Brain Cancer Diagnosis
Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in the NBA, has announced a significant health challenge. He is currently battling stage four glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. The diagnosis was revealed in an article he wrote for ESPN, where he shared his journey and treatment.
Diagnosis of Brain Cancer
Collins learned he had the inoperable brain tumor after experiencing difficulties with focus and memory. Signs of his illness became evident shortly after he married his husband in May. He shares that he missed a flight due to his inability to pack his luggage efficiently. A subsequent brain scan confirmed the tumor’s presence.
Understanding Glioblastoma
Stage four glioblastoma is known for its rapid progression and severity. Collins described his condition metaphorically, stating it feels like “a monster with tentacles spreading across the underside of my brain.” Doctors informed him that without immediate treatment, he could face life-threatening consequences within just three months.
Treatment Journey
Collins is undergoing treatment with a drug called Avastin, which aims to slow the tumor’s growth. He is also traveling to Singapore for specialized chemotherapy. His proactive approach reflects his athletic background, as he correlates the challenges of his treatment with competitive moments on the basketball court.
- Diagnosis: Stage four glioblastoma
- Treatment: Avastin and targeted chemotherapy in Singapore
- Personal Reflection: Collins compares his health battle to facing former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal.
Living Openly and Authentically
Reflecting on his experience, Collins believes that coming out as gay set the stage for his current fight against cancer. He stated that the years following his announcement were some of the best of his life. “Your life is so much better when you just show up as your true self,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of authenticity.
Legacy and Influence
In his basketball career, Collins played for six teams over 13 seasons before retiring in 2014. His decision to come out publicly made him a figure of influence, earning him a spot on Time Magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people. He hopes that sharing his cancer diagnosis will inspire others and contribute to advancements in treatment for this challenging disease.
As Collins navigates this difficult chapter, he remains hopeful for better cancer treatment methods and seeks to inspire others through his journey, just as he did as the NBA’s first openly gay player.
