UPDATE: Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in NBA history, has confirmed he is battling Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive and deadly forms of brain cancer. This shocking revelation comes just months after his wedding to Brunson Green and marks a critical moment in Collins’ life as he faces this devastating diagnosis.
In a candid statement shared with the public, Collins explained that a few months ago, his family released a brief message about his brain tumor to maintain his privacy. However, he felt it was time to share the full story. “I have Stage 4 glioblastoma,” he declared. “It came on incredibly fast.” He described how his health deteriorated rapidly, revealing symptoms that made it difficult for him to even prepare for a planned trip to the US Open.
After undergoing a CT scan at UCLA, Collins learned he had a glioblastoma characterized by a growth factor of 30%. This alarming rate indicated that if untreated, the tumor could quickly become fatal. “My glioblastoma is extraordinary for all the wrong reasons,” Collins stated, describing it as a “monster with tentacles” spreading across his brain.
This aggressive tumor is particularly concerning because it is located near the frontal lobe, which affects his cognitive functions. Collins explained that his mental clarity and short-term memory were severely impacted, comparing his state to “Dory” from “Finding Nemo.” He shared an emotional moment with his twin brother, Jarron, who urged him to fight against the cancer. “You have to fight. No matter what, you have to fight,” Jarron said.
Collins is currently receiving treatment that includes Avastin and radiation, which he hopes will help regain some quality of life. He noted the importance of fighting back against the cancer, stating, “We aren’t going to sit back and let this cancer kill me without giving it a hell of a fight.” His treatment also involves cutting-edge therapies in Singapore, utilizing targeted chemotherapy that aims to penetrate the blood-brain barrier.
Despite the grim prognosis associated with glioblastoma, which averages 11 to 14 months of survival with standard care, Collins remains hopeful. He emphasizes the fight not just for himself but for others who may face similar diagnoses. “If what I’m doing doesn’t save me, I feel good thinking that it might help someone else one day,” he expressed.
Collins also reflected on his past experience coming out as an openly gay athlete and how that journey has prepared him for this new challenge. “Your life is so much better when you just show up as your true self,” he said. He aims to bring awareness to glioblastoma and the need for innovative treatments, hoping his story will resonate with others facing similar battles.
This urgent update on Jason Collins’ health highlights the need for greater awareness and research into aggressive brain cancers like glioblastoma. As he continues his fight, Collins invites everyone to join him in the battle against this formidable foe.
Stay tuned for more updates as Collins navigates this challenging journey, and remember the fight against cancer is a shared struggle that affects many. Your support can make a difference.
