Deion Sanders Beats Bladder Cancer, Vows to Keep Coaching Colorado
Deion Sanders, the head football coach at the University of Colorado, has revealed he battled and beat bladder cancer. The former NFL star underwent surgery to remove his bladder after a tumor was found.
Speaking at the Dal Ward Athletic Center in Boulder, Sanders shared his health update. The announcement was both emotional and inspiring. He appeared with Dr. Janet Kukreja, who led his medical team, and team trainer Lauren Askevold.
Dr. Kukreja, a specialist at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, called Sanders “cured of cancer.” She said she does not use the word “cured” lightly.
Sanders, now 57, said the experience was intense. He lost 25 pounds and faced serious post-surgery challenges. But he never gave up.
“It was a fight, but we made it,” he said with gratitude and humor.
More on this inspiring story can be found at Intime Sky News, including exclusive updates and analysis.
A Silent Struggle
Sanders kept his condition private for months. Even his closest friends and family were unaware of the full details. He didn’t want his sons Shedeur and Shilo, or star player Travis Hunter, distracted as they prepared for the NFL draft.
“They didn’t know what the extent of it was,” he explained.
Sanders even changed his phone number multiple times to avoid discussing his illness. He stayed away from public appearances, except for one at the Big 12 media days.
There, he thanked Colorado athletic director Rick George and Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark for their support. But he said little about his health.
Now, he’s opening up to the public.
A Radical Surgery, A New Life
Bladder cancer required Sanders to undergo a major procedure. Some of his small intestine used to build a new bladder.
“It is a learning curve,” said Dr. Kukreja of the lifestyle changes post-surgery.
Sanders brought humor to the topic, even when discussing daily struggles. “I depend on Depends,” he joked. “If you see a port-a-potty on the sideline, it’s real.”
He’s not just laughing for himself. He hopes it helps others going through similar issues. “I want people to not be embarrassed,” he added.
His openness about bladder cancer may encourage more people to get examined early. Sanders emphasized that he showed no symptoms before a routine exam revealed the tumor.
“Get checked out,” he urged. “It could have been a whole other kind of gathering if I didn’t.”
For more on how early detection saves lives, visit Intime Sky News.
A Coach’s Return
Despite the surgery, Sanders will return to the sidelines this season. Doctors have cleared him to coach, and he’s medically ready.
The Buffaloes had a solid 2024 season, finishing 9-4 and reaching the Alamo Bowl. Sanders’ son Shedeur, who starred at quarterback, is now in the NFL. So is safety Shilo Sanders.
This season will be Deion’s first without either of his sons on the team.
A big question this year: Who will replace Shedeur? Freshman Julian Lewis, a five-star recruit, is competing with Kaidon Salter for the starting job.
A Journey of Faith and Humor
Sanders leaned heavily on his faith during recovery. He believes his battle with cancer was a test—and he passed.
“This was not a cakewalk,” he said. “It was tough, but God had me.”
He also thanked his medical team for their skill and encouragement. Dr. Kukreja joked during treatment, “As good as you were [as a player], I’m better.”
Sanders appreciated the motivation. “I needed that push,” he admitted.
Trainer Lauren Askevold called him “the perfect patient.” She said he never lost focus or determination.
Inspiring Others
Beyond football, Sanders is now an advocate for cancer awareness. He encourages regular checkups and early screenings.
“Everyone knows someone who is affected or infected by the ‘C’ word,” he said.
By speaking out, he hopes to reduce stigma around bladder cancer and raise awareness.
His journey shows that even the strongest can face health battles—but also overcome them.
Learn more about early detection, symptoms, and support at Intime Sky News, where we track health updates from major public figures.
What’s Next for Colorado?
With Sanders back on the sidelines, the Buffaloes are preparing for a new season. Without Shedeur, all eyes are on the quarterback battle.
Julian Lewis, just 17, brings huge expectations. He’s ranked No. 2 in the 2025 ESPN 300. Kaidon Salter has experience and leadership from his time at Liberty.
This will be a rebuilding season, but the energy remains high.
Sanders is ready. He’s not just a coach now—he’s a survivor.
Conclusion:
Deion Sanders’ battle with bladder cancer shows strength, faith, and resilience. Despite the health scare, he’s determined to keep leading Colorado. His story serves as a wake-up call for early detection and cancer awareness. You can follow more on his recovery and football season at https://intimeskynews.com.