'Awful news': David Brooks cancer diagnosis rocks football world
Wales and Bournemouth star David Brooks has made the heartbreaking revelation that he's been diagnosed with cancer.
The midfielder, 24, was on international duty with Wales for their World Cup qualifiers last week when he pulled out of the squad.
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Brooks has since revealed that he has Stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma, but insists "the prognosis is a positive one".
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which functions as an important part of the body's immune system.
Brooks is set to begin treatment for the condition next week.
The midfielder praised the Wales medical staff for detecting the issue, and for the doctors and nurses who have so far been treating him for the condition.
"I'd like to show my appreciation to the doctors, nurses, consultants and staff who have been treating me for their professionalism, warmth and understanding during this period," Brooks said.
"I want to thank everyone at the Football Association of Wales because without the swift attention of their medical team we may not have detected the illness.
"I'd also like to say thank you to AFC Bournemouth for all of their support and assistance this past week."
Brooks has scored three goals in nine games for Bournemouth in the Championship this season and made three appearances for Wales at the European Championships earlier in the year.
"Although I appreciate that there will be media attention and interest, I would like to ask that my privacy is respected in the coming months and I will share updates on my progress when I am able to do so," he added.
"In the meantime, thank you to everyone for their messages of support - it means so much and will continue to do so in the months ahead.
"I look forward to seeing you all again and playing the sport I love very soon."
News of the diagnosis has left the football world shocked, with fans wishing Brooks a speedy recovery.
We can confirm that midfielder David Brooks has been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Weβre all behind you, Brooksy β€οΈ#afcb πβ AFC Bournemouth π (@afcbournemouth) October 13, 2021
David Brooks has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Horrible to hear.
We wish him a speedy recovery π pic.twitter.com/xUVUDd0ErJβ Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) October 13, 2021
Wales and Bournemouth star David Brooks has announced he has been diagnosed with cancer.
The 24-year-old says the prognosis is βpositiveβ and he hopes to be back playing football again.
Come back stronger, David π pic.twitter.com/fCZV9YNnPJβ talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) October 13, 2021
The FAW, @Cymru Menβs Senior Squad & Management and the whole Welsh football family extend their support and best wishes to David during his treatment. #TogetherStronger
β FA WALES (@FAWales) October 13, 2021
Wishing David Brooks a speedy recovery β€οΈ π pic.twitter.com/P7QGjJWfHq
β ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) October 13, 2021
Wishing David Brooks the very best.. his family and closest friends will give David all the support he needs.. stay strong and positive young Brooksy β€οΈβ€οΈ
β John Hartson (@JohnHartson10) October 13, 2021
Bournemouth midfielder David Brooks has confirmed he's been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Awful news. Wishing him a speedy recovery. π pic.twitter.com/JLUiSXpW55β Oddschanger (@Oddschanger) October 13, 2021
π Desperate news to hear that #AFCB winger David Brooks has been diagnosed with Hodgkinβs Lymphoma, described on NHS website as βan uncommon cancer that develops in the lymphatic system.β Treatment underway. Wish you the very best, @DRBrooks15 ππ»
β Kris Temple (@kristemple) October 13, 2021
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