Deion Sanders fights stigma, pleads with men to get cancer screening after treatment

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders revealed Monday that he underwent a bout with bladder cancer, having it removed and having the cancer “cured.” But he was emotional about it as he revealed the news to the world.

First and foremost, Sanders wanted to make sure others are getting screened adequately. His issue didn’t turn up until he went through a fairly routine urology test.

“This wasn’t easy. Man, everybody: Get checked out,” Sanders said. “Because if it wasn’t for me being tested for something else they wouldn’t have stumbled up on this. And make sure you go to get the right care, because without wonderful people like this I probably wouldn’t be sitting here today because it was so expeditiously (handled) I can say.”

Deion Sanders revealed he lost about 25 pounds through the ordeal, and while he has gained some of the weight back, he’s still about 12 pounds short of his target. He’s no longer able to pee regularly, something he shared with those in attendance at his press conference.

But it’s clear Sanders is grateful for how his ordeal unfolded. He paused for a few moments mid-press conference after thanking God for allowing him to still be here. He reiterated his plea, too.

“But please, get yourself checked out. Especially us American men,” Sanders said. “We don’t like going to the doctors, we want nothing to do with the doctor. You know that. So I’m not just talking to the brothers, I’m talking to my Caucasian brothers, my Hispanic brothers, my Asian brothers… everybody and my sisters. And that’s all y’all. Get. Checked. Out. Because it could have been a whole ‘nother gathering if I hadn’t. I’m thankful. It’s been a tremendous journey. It’s been tough.”

Deion Sanders was also emotional because his health scare came at a pivotal time for his family. His sons, Shedeur Sanders and Shilo Sanders, were going through the NFL Draft shortly before Sanders’ operation to have the bladder removed.

His sons didn’t know the full extent of his issue, as Sanders wanted them to focus on the task at hand. That was tough.

“The process wasn’t easy. Just like there was some scenes that you saw, all the bulljunk that transpired on draft day,” Sanders said. “It wasn’t just that, it was just that I knew as well I had a surgery coming up. My sons, to this day, don’t know what transpired. I just told them it was something with my foot so they could be focused on making the team and they’re not focused on dad. So they really don’t know.”

Deion Sanders praised his entire support system. That included his son Deion Sanders Jr.

“Much love to my son Junior, who have not left my side since I found out what was taking place,” Sanders said. “He’s been with me, he’s texted me everywhere, every day and I’ve seen his handsome face. And I love you life, son, and I think you for everything you bring to the table.”