BREAKING: Former NBA player Jason Collins has publicly revealed he is battling Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. In an emotional statement, Collins shared his diagnosis and the rapid decline in his health, urging others to understand the severity of his condition.
Collins, who made history as the first openly gay active player in the NBA, disclosed that his family initially kept details vague to protect his privacy. “Now it’s time for people to hear directly from me,” Collins stated, underscoring the gravity of his situation.
The diagnosis came just months after he married Brunson Green in May 2023. Collins described his shocking symptoms, which began in August when he struggled to focus and missed a flight to the US Open due to his declining condition. “Something was really wrong, though,” he recounted, leading to a swift diagnosis at UCLA.
During a CT scan, Collins was informed he needed to see a specialist almost immediately. “According to my family, in hours, my mental clarity, short-term memory and comprehension disappeared,” he revealed. The glioblastoma is “multiforme,” described by Collins as a “monster with tentacles,” making treatment exceedingly challenging.
With a growth factor of 30%, Collins learned that without intervention, he faced a prognosis of just six weeks to three months. “My glioblastoma is extraordinary for all the wrong reasons,” he said, emphasizing its aggressive nature and complex mutations.
Despite the grim news, Collins remains determined to fight. “I know there’s more fight in me,” he declared, channeling the spirit of his grandmother, who outlived her prognosis with Stage 4 stomach cancer. His family has sought advanced treatment options, including a drug called Avastin, and radiation therapy, which he began shortly after leaving the hospital.
Collins’ treatment journey is also taking him to Singapore for targeted chemotherapy, utilizing a method designed to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. He believes this innovative approach might not only save his life but also pave the way for future patients battling similar diagnoses.
As he continues his fight, Collins draws on his experiences as an athlete, stating, “These are the cards I’ve been dealt. To me it’s like, ‘Shut up and go play against Shaq.'” His resolve is further supported by his twin brother Jarron Collins, who urged him to fight, emphasizing the importance of determination in overcoming obstacles.
Collins wants to raise awareness about glioblastoma and hopes that sharing his journey will help others facing similar battles. “If I can do that again now, then that matters,” he said, reflecting on the impact of living openly and authentically.
In a world where cancer is often shrouded in fear, Collins’ candidness about his diagnosis and treatment serves as a powerful message of resilience. He is committed to fighting this battle, not just for himself, but for others who may face similar challenges in the future.
As the situation develops, fans and supporters are rallying behind Collins, sharing his story and raising awareness about glioblastoma. Stay tuned for more updates on his courageous journey.
