University of Colorado head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders revealed Monday he underwent surgery to remove his bladder this offseason after doctors discovered an aggressive cancerous tumor. Dr. Janet Kukreja, the director of urologic oncology at the CU Cancer Center, confirmed the procedure included constructing a new bladder from a section of Sanders’ intestine. She stated, “I am pleased to report that the results from the surgery are that he’s cured from the cancer.”
Sanders said the tumor was identified during a routine scans tied to past vascular issues. The cancer had reached a high‑risk stage and threatened muscle tissue near the bladder wall. Kukreja’s team acted swiftly, performing robotic laparoscopic surgery to remove the entire bladder. The oncologist declared Sanders cancer‑free postoperation.
Emotional Ordeal and Family Sacrifices
The 57‑year‑old coach described the experience in emotional terms. “It was dynamic. It was tough. It wasn’t a cakewalk. It wasn’t easy,” he admitted, reflecting on significant weight loss and lifestyle changes.
Sanders revealed he wrote a will in May, fearing he might not return. “That was tough, to think you may not be here,” he said. He kept the diagnosis secret from his sons, telling them the issue involved his foot instead, so they could focus on their careers. “My sons to this day don’t know what transpired… I just told them something with my foot,” he explained.
Lauren Askevold, the Buffaloes’ team trainer, praised Sanders’ resilience. “He never folded one time and never wavered…” she said. “It’s been a hectic journey, but there’s a blessing very in disguise with all this.”
Returning to the Sideline and Raising Awareness
Sanders confirmed he intends to coach Colorado this season, entering his third year leading the Buffaloes. “I always knew I was going to coach again,” he stressed. His health challenges won’t stop him, though he joked his new normal includes needing frequent bathroom access. “I depend on Depends… I get up… four, five times a night,” he quipped.
Colorado is reportedly planning to place a portable toilet on the sideline to support him during games.
During the press conference, Sanders urged everyone to seek medical care. “Get checked out because it could have been a whole other gathering if I hadn’t,” he said, emphasizing early detection’s importance.
He also used his own health journey as a message of hope. “If it can happen to Prime, it can happen to you,” he said. “Let’s stop being ashamed… and deal with it head on.