Wellington: Former New Zealand cricket captain Martin Crowe has said his cancer is “very treatable” and “not aggressive”, and that he has been overwhelmed by the support he has received, as he starts his fight against the disease.
Crowe released a statement today after it was revealed earlier in the week he was suffering from Follicular Lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s blood disease.
“Firstly, I am overwhelmed by the support and concern by so many around the world and wish to say a massive thanks. The support and encouragement have helped immeasurably. It has enabled me to come to terms with the shock from my recent Lymphoma diagnosis faster,” Crowe said.
“It’s a grade 2 type, which is a slow growing disease in its mid stage. My lymph nodes in various parts of my body; neck, armpits, stomach, are affected, it is very treatable. It is not aggressive. Treatment will be decided in due course after further tests and consultation in the next two weeks,” he said.
Crowe believes his body had become vulnerable through the rigours of international cricket and touring.
“My immune system has been compromised. In the past, on travels during my cricket career, suffering salmonella and glandular fever has compromised me. The result of a weakened immune system over the last two decades is basically why I have become exposed to this sort of disease,” he said.
ANI
First Published: Thursday, October 18, 2012, 12:20