Dion Sanders Discusses Health After Bladder Cancer Fight

Former NFL star and current Colorado Football head coach Dion Sanders spoke about his health following his recent battle with bladder cancer. During a media day event, he expressed, “I’m healthy, I’m vibrant. I am my old self.”

At 58, Sanders confirmed he walks at least a mile around campus following practice. He had been away from the team earlier in the summer as he focused on recovery.

“I love life now,” he shared, stressing the importance of living fully after his health scare.

Earlier this summer, Sanders revealed he underwent surgery to remove his bladder after a cancer diagnosis. “Everyone should get checked. If it weren’t for some routine tests, they wouldn’t have found this in time,” he mentioned at a previous press conference, emphasizing the critical need for regular health assessments.

Colorado’s Assistant Athletic Trainer Lauren Assky Bold and Dr. Janet Kukleja from UC Health provided updates on Sanders’s condition. After attempting different evaluations, Sanders was referred to a urologist, which led to surgery to remove a tumor that had invaded the bladder wall. As Kukleja noted, the surgery went well, and Sanders is now cancer-free.

Despite the challenges, Sanders has been vocal about the significance of health awareness, sharing his journey with others as a reminder to prioritize their health.

In a heartfelt video posted by his son, Deion Sanders Jr., the coach reflected on the emotional gravity of preparing a will during his health struggles, illustrating the weight of his situation. “Mentally, emotionally, last night was tough… It’s not easy to think you might not be here,” he said.

Taking the head coaching role at Colorado before the 2023 season, Sanders has also brought his sons along, ensuring a family connection to the program.

Last season, he celebrated significant successes, including his son, Travis Hunter, winning the Heisman Trophy and leading the team to a 9-4 record, culminating in a bowl game appearance.