Jason Collins, the former NBA player renowned for being the first active, openly gay player in league history, is currently confronting a significant health challenge. He’s been diagnosed with Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the very deadliest forms of brain cancer. Now, he is proactively treating himself at a specialized rehabilitation clinic in Singapore. Collins has been candid about his experience, bringing attention to the emotional and physical tolls he is facing. He then confirms his nonstop intent and conviction to fight this mighty disease.
Collins went on to have a notable 13 year NBA career, playing with six different teams. In 2013, the long-time athlete shot to stardom not only for his athletic prowess, but his heroic decision to come out as gay. His announcement was an extraordinary moment in the history of sports. It definitely opened doors for acceptance and representation on a professional athletics level. For all of his trailblazing legacy, Collins now faces a David and Goliath struggle with cancer.
In September 2023, Collins received the devastating news that he had a brain tumor. His repeated medical evaluations solidified the diagnosis of Stage 4 glioblastoma. This highly aggressive cancer has a dismal prognosis. During surgery, the medical team learned that the tumor had a growth factor of 30%. That means it’s likely to grow like wildfire, unless we take swift action to stop it.
Collins is taking the battle to the disease with precision chemotherapy. This cutting-edge targeted therapy leverages extracellular delivery vehicles (EDVs) to deliver chemotherapy agents directly to the tumor cells themselves. On top of this, he has been dealt the blow of needing radiation treatment where he had to be wheeled in on his first day of receiving treatment. The impact on Collins’ body has been just as heavy, but Collins is more determined than ever in his pursuit of the fight.
Though fighting the effects of treatment, Collins has found comfort in surprising places. While in the hospital, he found a new passion for peaceful, quiet Korean soap operas. They provided a pleasant escape from the reality of the battles he was facing. This past time is just one example of the way he expresses his ability to create spaces of delight during difficult times.
Through her medical journey, Collins has worked closely with Dr. Henry Friedman of Duke University, an internationally known neuro-oncology expert. Thanks to this guidance, he started to improve within weeks of starting care. Within a few days, he began to clear from the mental fog that often follows this type of shocking diagnosis. By mid-October, Collins was able to take short walks around his neighborhood, a testament to his resilience and commitment to recovery.
His personal life has served as that same source of strength to endure these trying times. Then, in May 2023, Collins wed Brunson Green, deepening their connection as they continue to weather this tumultuous chapter side by side. Family and friends have been crucial on his journey. His support has done everything from help him maintain a fighting spirit, despite his life-threatening condition.
While Collins receives his treatment in Singapore, he’s staying very committed to prioritizing his health and well-being. He accepts the seriousness of his circumstances, but he accepts the need for hope and continued fight. Today, his story inspires children and adults alike, who are dealing with the same health issues. It inspires people at every economic level.
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