Sanders Shares Journey After Bladder Cancer Battle
In a recent announcement, Hall of Fame athlete and current University of Colorado Boulder football coach, Dion Sanders, revealed his battle with bladder cancer during a press conference at Folsom Field. At 57, Sanders appeared alongside his medical team and representatives from the University of Colorado Health and Anschutz Medical Campus.
Diagnosed with “very high-risk, non-muscular, invasive bladder cancer,” his oncologist stated that he is now cancer-free. Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of Urological Oncology at CU Anschutz, shared that they successfully removed the tumor, which was infiltrating the bladder wall. “I’m pleased to report that the outcome of the surgery shows he is cured,” she noted.
Despite this positive news, oncologists expressed concern about the high recurrence and progression rates associated with Sanders’ type of cancer. The treatment process for bladder diseases can be lengthy, often taking three years, and there’s about a 50% chance of the cancer returning. Additionally, doctors explained that once bladder cancer spreads, it often affects surrounding muscles.
Sanders and his medical team opted for a full robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder removal, creating a new bladder from part of his intestines. This method, while less invasive, still presents a learning curve, as noted by Dr. Kukreja: “It’s a new way of life.” Sanders reflected on his experience, commenting, “It’s certainly a learning curve.”
Interestingly, his bladder tumor was discovered during an unrelated CT scan for heart health. Reflecting on his journey, Sanders expressed gratitude and emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs. “It was an incredible, yet tough journey,” he admitted. He urged others to seek medical care without hesitation, saying, “If I hadn’t been tested for something else, they wouldn’t have found this.”
He also detailed struggles such as using catheters and the life changes that accompany such diagnoses. “Blood in the urine is never normal in the absence of an infection and should be checked at all times,” Sanders cautioned.
Sanders is now feeling strong and ready to return to coaching. He firmly believes, “it was never in my spirit that God would not allow me to coach again.” His doctor, Dr. Kukreja, noted that his outlook is promising, with continued routine surveillance.
Recognizing Bladder Cancer Warning Signs
Though Sanders mentioned “there are no signs,” Dr. Kukreja stressed awareness regarding the early indicators of bladder cancer, particularly since it ranks as the fourth most common cancer among men. Blood in the urine is a significant red flag that should never be ignored.
Even in the absence of symptoms, regular check-ups with a primary care physician are advisable. Dr. Kukreja highlighted that Sanders, who is not a smoker, still faced this diagnosis. “Smoking is often a significant risk factor for bladder cancer,” she stated.
Dr. Chad Ryan Rich, a urological oncologist, echoed that visible, or even microscopic, blood in the urine without pain should prompt immediate medical consultation. He mentioned that other less common symptoms include the urge to urinate frequently and discomfort. These signs should not be overlooked, especially if accompanied by other issues like flank pain or urinary obstruction.
Ultimately, preventing bladder cancer hinges on awareness and effective healthcare practices. “If you have risk factors or see blood in your urine, it’s crucial to consult a doctor,” stressed Dr. Rich.
