LSU defensive back [autotag]Greg Brooks Jr.[/autotag] has been diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. The diagnosis was announced in joint statements from Brooks’ family, LSU and Our Lady of the Lake Health.
Brooks underwent a procedure to remove a brain tumor last month after suffering from vertigo, which led the team to have him undergo an MRI that revealed the tumor.
According to a statement from the hospital’s chief medical officer, the surgery to remove the tumor was successful, and there is no evidence the cancer has spread.
“For the last three weeks, Greg has been recovering from an extensive surgery to remove a brain tumor that was located between his cerebellum and brainstem,” Catherine O’Neal, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Our Lady of the Lake Health, said in a release. “Greg’s speech and ability to communicate has been impacted, and although he is responsive and working daily with physical therapy, he will face months of intensive rehabilitation. The surgery was successful in removing the tumor, and there is no evidence that the cancer has spread. As he begins rehab in the coming weeks, Greg’s family and care team will determine a treatment plan in collaboration with nationally recognized specialists in this specific form of brain cancer. He has a long journey ahead and will need the full support of our community behind him as he faces this battle.”
Brooks’ family said in a statement that he continues to fight and they are appreciative of the support from the LSU family.
“Greg has been a daily inspiration to us all,” the Brooks family said. “He fights like a Tiger each day and continues to make incremental improvements. We have a long road ahead and are appreciative of the support from our LSU family and Tiger fans. Greg has fans around the world and our phones have been ringing off the hook for the last several weeks with words of encouragement and support. Greg is a warrior! Please continue to keep No. 3, and our entire family, in your prayers.”
LSU President [autotag]William F. Tate IV[/autotag] offered his support and called on fans to donate to the Greg Brooks Victory Fund.
“Greg is a fighter and a winner, and we believe wholeheartedly that he will conquer this battle with cancer,” Tate said. “Victories are rarely achieved alone, which is why we’re calling on fans from around the world to rally behind The Greg Brooks Victory Fund. Your support will ensure that Greg and his family have everything they need as they embark on their journey to healing and recovery.”
Brooks is a graduate student and Harvey, Louisiana, native. He played his first three seasons at Arkansas before transferring back to his home state, where he has been a fixture in the secondary for the last two years.
If you wish to donate to the Greg Brooks Victory Fund, you can do so by following this link.
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