Deion Sanders discloses his bladder cancer diagnosis

Deion Sanders to Undergo Bladder Removal Surgery Following Cancer Diagnosis

Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, has been diagnosed with cancer, necessitating the removal of his bladder, as disclosed by doctors on Monday at the University of Colorado.

In a press conference with medical professionals, Sanders talked about his ongoing health challenges. He mentioned, “If I hadn’t been tested on anything else, this wouldn’t have been discovered.” He urged everyone to prioritize their health and consult medical experts regularly.

Colorado’s assistant athletic trainer, Lauren Askhibold, along with Dr. Janet Kukreja of UC Health, provided insights into Sanders’ diagnosis and the planned surgical procedures. After conducting a CT scan, they determined a bladder tumor was present, prompting a referral to a urologist.

Dr. Kukreja explained the findings: “We removed the tumors. It’s a very high grade, not in the muscle layer, but invades the bladder wall, which is classified as high-risk non-invasive bladder cancer.” It’s… concerning, but they felt hopeful about the approach moving forward.

Kukreja also mentioned that after discussing various options, Sanders opted for the complete removal of the bladder and the creation of a new one.

Fortunately, she confirmed, “I’m happy to report that the outcome of the surgery is that he’s cured from cancer.” However, Sanders shared that life afterward looks a little different now. “I can’t pee like I was peeing,” he said, which certainly sounds like a dramatic adjustment.

Sanders has been vocal about his health journey over the last few months, even revealing in a video shared by his son, Deion Sanders Jr., that he had to draw up a will, driven by his health worries. “Mentally, emotionally, last night was tough. You think you might not be here,” he expressed in that video.

He took on the head coaching role at Colorado at the beginning of the 2023 season after a successful tenure at Jackson State, alongside his sons, Shilo and Shedeur. The Buffaloes had a notable year in 2024, finishing 9-4 and earning a place in the Alamo Bowl.