Eric Berry, safety of Kansas City Chiefs and one of its superstars, has just been diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, or cancer in the lymphatic system, on Saturday, December 6.
Also known as the Fifth Dimension, Berry started complaining about chest discomfort during their November 20 game against Oakland Raiders. His trainers then initiate a physical examination the next day and more follow-up on Saturday, November 22, in University of Kansas Medical Center. The tests showed that he had a mass on his right chest. He then went to Winship Cancer Institute in Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, for further tests.
Although his trainers already feared that this may be lymphoma, it wasn't until first week of December that it was confirmed. According to Rick Burkholder, the team's trainer, Berry didn't complain of any chest pain before the game.
Since the November 20 game, he's been listed under non-football injury.
Berry will begin his chemotherapy regimen, according to Emory Lymphoma Program director Christopher Flowers. (The hospital is one of the top 25 cancer facilities in the country.) The director also remains optimistic that Berry can survive as this type of cancer usually responds well with standard chemotherapy, especially if it's treated as soon as possible.
On Monday, Berry released an official statement thanking his team, doctors, and fans for their continued support. He also ensures everyone he's going to attack the disease like he does in other aspects of his life and that he believes God has prepared him for this new battle.
In the meantime, his teammates wore the "Be Brave, Be Bold, Be Berry" shirts as a sign of support. The shirt is also available for only $20 in their online shop and in Arrowhead Stadium. All proceeds will go to a foundation created under Berry's name to fund for research on lymphoma.
