Jason Collins Announces Battle with Stage 4 Glioblastoma
Jason Collins, a former NBA player known for his groundbreaking decision to come out as the first openly gay active player in a major North American sports league in 2013, has announced that he is battling Stage 4 glioblastoma, a severe form of brain cancer. The diagnosis became public after he spoke with ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, revealing that his family had disclosed earlier this year that he was dealing with a brain tumor but chose to keep specifics private for his own peace of mind.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The 47-year-old athlete first noticed concerning symptoms during the summer, but he initially attempted to dismiss them. It wasn’t until August, when he struggled to concentrate on packing for a trip to the US Open with his husband, that he sought medical help. Following a CT scan, doctors confirmed the presence of glioblastoma. Collins explained that due to the tumor’s aggressive nature, complete surgical removal was not an option, as it could drastically alter his life post-operation.
Treatment and Prognosis
Collins shared that the conventional treatment plan for this diagnosis typically offers an average life expectancy of just 11 to 14 months. He stated,
“Because my tumor is unresectable, going solely with the ‘standard of care’ — radiation and TMZ — the average prognosis is only 11 to 14 months. If that’s all the time I have left, I’d rather spend it trying a course of treatment that might one day be a new standard of care for everyone.”
Determined to explore innovative treatments, Collins emphasized that financial constraints were not a concern given his NBA earnings, stating he is open to seeking care anywhere in the world. Drawing parallels to his journey of coming out, Collins expressed a desire to use his platform to assist others facing similar challenges, saying,
“If I can do that again now, then that matters.”
Career Overview
Drafted by the Houston Rockets as the 18th overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft, Collins later played for various teams throughout his 13-season career, most notably with the New Jersey Nets. He retired after the 2013-14 season, concluding his NBA journey with an average of 7.8 minutes in 22 games.
Conclusion
Collins’ courageous decision to speak openly about his condition serves not only as a personal reflection of his current battle but also as a beacon of hope for others who may be dealing with similar health struggles.
