Deion Sanders' Cancer Journey Sparks Awareness

Deion Sanders' Journey Through Bladder Cancer and Recovery

During a deeply moving press conference, Deion Sanders opened up about his recent battle with bladder cancer. He revealed that he was diagnosed with the disease and underwent surgery to remove the organ in May, which led to his recovery. The event took place alongside CU athletic trainer Lauren Askevold and Dr. Janet Kukreja, Director of Urologic Oncology at UC Health CU Cancer Center. During the session, Sanders shared personal moments of vulnerability and the overwhelming support he received from those around him.

Sanders described the early stages of his illness, including times when he had to walk with two bags filled with blood and urine, often unable to get out of bed for days. He expressed deep gratitude to Askevold for her unwavering support during the most difficult times. “You have no idea how good God has been,” Sanders said, reflecting on the strength he found in his faith.

Askevold shared her perspective, stating, “He never folded one time and never wavered.” She praised Sanders for his determination and resilience, noting that he always wanted to get back on his feet. “You couldn't ask for a better patient because he wants to get up and get going right. So it's been awesome. It's been a hectic journey, but there's a blessing very much in disguise with all this.”

Coach Prime emphasized that his struggles were not just personal but also aimed at inspiring others to seek medical care. “This ain’t about me. This is about y’all,” he said. “If it could happen to Prime, baby, it could happen to you.” His message was clear: health should be a priority for everyone.

When discussing treatment options, Sanders explained that he chose bladder removal over years of ongoing treatments that would interfere with his commitments to Colorado and his family. Dr. Kukreja confirmed that the cancer had a high recurrence rate, and Sanders’ decision aligned with his values. He wanted to be fully present for his children and players.

Most of Sanders’ team didn’t even know he had cancer, as he credited his staff and inner circle for keeping the situation private. He expressed heartfelt thanks to his coaching staff for stepping up in his absence and praised them for their loyalty and capability. “I'm back, baby,” Sanders said, signaling his return to the team.

Coach Prime has been away from the team since right after CU's Spring Game in April. During that time, he was preparing his sons, Shilo and Shedeur, for the NFL Draft while fighting cancer. He emphasized the need for immediate procedures to prevent the spread of the disease. “It was dynamic. It wasn't a cakewalk. It wasn't easy,” he admitted. “That was a fight, but we made it.”

Despite the physical and emotional toll over the past four months, Sanders never lost his spirit. He spoke of receiving daily encouragement from friends like Randy Moss, Adam 'Pacman' Jones, Travis Hunter, Michael Irvin, and DeSean Jackson. “I’m built for this,” he said, referencing the battles he’s faced, from losing toes to walking like “Fred G. Sanford” after 14 surgeries. Even in his humor, he joked about having more procedures after his playing days than during his Hall-of-Fame career.

“God ain’t done with me yet,” he said. “I’m on assignment. I’m in alignment.” Sanders used the platform to urge fans and media alike to get medical checkups and pay attention to their health. “Do you want to be dead or be here dealing with something and being blessed with a wonderful doctor?”

Sanders stated that he has built himself back up from losing 25 pounds. Currently, he has gained back 12 pounds and looks forward to filling out his overalls like no other. He wants everyone to take their health seriously and get themselves checked, ensuring their health is in order. Coach Prime said he will be coaching this season, and there will be a porta potty on the sidelines at practice and the game because of the issues he has with his bladder.

With Coach Prime back on campus, the Buffs open Fall Camp this week, which comes one month before the 2025 season opener against Georgia Tech on Aug. 29 (8 p.m. ET on ESPN).