Most recently, Denver Broncos linebacker Alex Singleton has faced such a challenge that would change his life forever. This is an important turn in his fourth year with the club. The 32-year-old professional athlete suddenly found himself with a life-changing diagnosis of testicular cancer. This challenge had a profound impact on his career and changed his perspective on life and health. One day, a random drug test brought to light his battle with cancer. Little did he know, this diagnosis would result in surgery that would change the trajectory of his life.
Singleton’s cancer experience started on November 3, the day he was informed of his diagnosis. The news hit him like a ton of bricks, leaving him little choice but to face the scary questions that come with such a diagnosis. A time of waiting He remembered the terrifying limbo of that present moment after receiving his diagnosis, when he didn’t know if the cancer had metastasized.
“You’re just thinking, ‘Did we catch it soon enough, did it spread, what happens if it did?’” – Alex Singleton
“That week was so horrifying. We didn’t find out totally, for sure, until after surgery that following Wednesday that the cancer had not spread,” Singleton stated. “I just needed to see the lab results. All of them.”
The morning after the Broncos’ rugged 10-7 win against the Las Vegas Raiders, surgeons went to work on the tumor removal. It was a major operation planned just days after that exciting game. Even more impressively, Singleton only missed one game throughout his treatment. He stepped back on the field on November 30 against the Washington Commanders. His strength of spirit was evident even as he waged his own fight.
In his first game back, Singleton wasted little time making his presence felt. Against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he had a season-high 13 tackles, but the Broncos lost—34-20. His performance showcased his commitment to the game and his will to overcome adversity.
Singleton also leads the Broncos in tackles with a staggering 124 take downs on the year. In addition, he’s made it his mission to serve as a passionate and vocal leader in the overall fight against testicular cancer. As a survivor, he wants to educate everyone of all ages about the benefits of early detection and getting regular checkups, not just men.
“So, it’s hard to talk about it, about that part of your body or whatever, you don’t want to talk about it,” Singleton remarked. “So, don’t talk about it — just go get checked. You’ve got people around you who need you to go get checked for anything.”
Sam Singleton was candid about her reactions to such a diagnosis and its effects on their life since.
“You do hear the word cancer, it is shocking, so shocking,” she said. “I needed to see medical information for myself.”
The couple’s journey has been life-changing, inspiring Singleton to savor life’s ordinary pleasures, like food, family, and his community, he says. In his remarks, he emphasized the need to seize every opportunity to spend time with our families and friends.
“Sounds weird, maybe, but I see my daughter laughing, sit and talk with my wife, and there is a little more, a different, like texture to it,” he shared.
Broncos defensive coordinator Jeff Schmedding commended Singleton’s handling of his situation, praising both his competitive nature and his character off the field.
“You know, I’ve been blown away by how he’s handled it,” Schmedding stated. “Obviously people see the competitor, but he’s one of the best people you’ll ever meet.”
Though he went through many physical and emotional challenges during this journey, Singleton is still focused on staying healthy and getting his story out. He’s promised to keep up with routine visits and blood work if needed.
“I had surgery, I’ll do all the checkups and bloodwork for as long as I need to,” he remarked. “But it opens your eyes to what you should think about and worry about. It really just opens your eyes.”
As he continues his journey both on and off the field, Singleton emphasizes that awareness and action are crucial when it comes to health issues. He uses his platform as an NFL player to inspire others to do the same. He prays that you make your health a priority and consult a medical professional when necessary.
“Cancer … the word still freaks me out a little bit,” Singleton admitted. “And then you hear it … and your mind just goes.”
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