The Hall of Fame broadcaster’s doctor told him there is an “extremely high cure rate” for his condition.
ESPN college basketball analyst Dick Vitale announced Wednesday that he had been diagnosed with vocal cord cancer.
In 2021, Vitale, 84, was diagnosed with lymphoma and treated for melanoma.
“I’m sorry to inform you that I received difficult news about my throat today from Dr. Zeitels,” Vitale said in a statement. “Tests on the tissues they removed revealed that I have vocal cord cancer, requiring six weeks of radiation treatment. Dr. Z says it has an exceptionally high cure rate and that radiation, rather than further surgery, is the best option.”
Vitale, who has been with ESPN since the network’s inception in 1979, said he would “fight like hell” to be ready to return when the college basketball season begins in the fall. Vitale stated that his doctor believes this is “entirely possible,” adding that he is “so touched” by the fans’ support.
“This time last year, I was on the ESPYs stage, asking everyone to help in the cancer fight,” Vitale wrote. “This terrible disease affects so many of our loved ones and has knocked on my door thrice. More research will be beneficial in this fight.”
Vitale concluded his statement by saying he is “grateful” for his family and the ESPN family for “their incredible support, and so appreciative of the outstanding team of medical experts whose dedication has such a positive impact on so many lives.”
Vitale’s recent admission comes just a few weeks after he said that his doctor had informed him that “past issues on my vocal cords” had resurfaced. He required two surgeries, the first on July 11, and he was placed on complete voice rest for six to eight weeks in rehabilitation.
“That part is so frustrating as I feel trapped not being able to express myself,” he wrote on June 22. “The good news is that Dr. Z is confident I will be ready for my 45th year on @espn.”
The commentator and former basketball coach revealed his cancer diagnosis in an October 2021 piece for ESPN’s Front Row. After sharing his melanoma diagnosis, he discovered he had lymphoma or a lymphatic system disease. Vitale announced on Twitter in August 2022 that his doctor had cleared him of cancer.
Vitale earned the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at last year’s ESPYs and offered an emotional statement after actor Jon Hamm presented the award.
“No child should be subjected to chemo or radiation,” Vitale said. “After all, cancer does not discriminate… It will bring you to your knees regardless of ethnicity or religion. My friends, one way to combat cancer is to gather funds to provide oncologists with a fighting chance.”
“Keep chasing your dreams, keep chasing your goals,” Vitale said, adding, “Just remember: perseverance, plus passion, plus pride, equals ‘win’ in the game of life.”
