Washington’s football coach Ron Rivera has been diagnosed with cancer. According to ESPN, Rivera plans to continue coaching.
Rivera was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma located in a lymph node, the team said in a statement. Rivera said the cancer is in the early stages and is considered “very treatable and curable.”
Full statement via Twitter:
— Washington Football Team (@WashingtonNFL) August 21, 2020
Rivera informed the team Thursday night during a team meeting of his condition. As of now, he says nothing is changing with his job.
I’m planning to go on coaching. Doctors encouraged me to do it too. They said, ‘If you feel strongly, do it. Don’t slow down, do your physical activities.’ But everyone keeps telling me by week three or four, you’ll start feeling it.
Squamous cell cancer is a form of skin cancer. It is usually not life-threatening but can spread throughout the body and cause serious complications.
58-year-old Rivera has consulted with many doctors and specialists about future treatment and is establishing a treatment plan with the team and an outside specialist.
Rivera said he found a lump on his neck in early July, and when it didn’t go away after a couple of weeks, he visited a doctor. He said he was told about cancer two weeks ago.
I was stunned, but I was angry because I feel like I’m in the best health I’ve been in.
Rivera has gained a lot of support from the franchise, players, and many others.
Sending our support & love to @RiverboatRonHC and his family. We’re so grateful for all the work you’ve done for ACS & #crucialcatch, and we’re standing with you as you begin your treatment ❤️? https://t.co/8vTU5znT56
— American Cancer Society (@AmericanCancer) August 21, 2020
We are sending our thoughts and prayers to Coach Rivera, and praying for a speedy recovery!
