Hartson battling cancer

July 14, 2009

John Hartson has been diagnosed with testicular cancer which has spread to his brain. The former Wales, Arsenal and Celtic striker is set to start a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy soon as he hopes to catch the disease as quick as possible.

Hartson was capped 51 times for Wales and played for five years for Celtic.

His consultant in Swansea said further test results would “establish a full picture” of his diagnosis and he faced “many months” of treatment.

Dr Gianfilippo Bertelli, consultant medical oncologist for Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University NHS Trust, said Hartson had attended last Friday with symptoms consistent with testicular cancer.

“A number of clinical tests were put in place and these have confirmed the presence of testicular cancer,” he said.

“Unfortunately, it has also been confirmed that this cancer has spread to Mr Hartson’s brain.

“We are awaiting the results of further tests to establish a full picture of Mr Hartson’s diagnosis.”

Dr Bertelli added: “We realise that Mr Hartson is a much-loved figure and there are many fans and well-wishers who will be keen to hear news of his progress.

“However, while treatment is ongoing we would ask that the privacy of Mr Hartson, and all the patients who attend our hospital, is respected.”

His family released a statement saying: “All the family, and John’s friends, are doing all we can to support him and praying that he will make a full recovery.

“John is getting excellent care from the oncologists at the hospital as he begins his treatment.

“John is a family man and we appreciate all the messages of support we have already received.”

When the 6ft 1in target man retired he said his biggest regret was not having played for his beloved Swansea City, the local club he had supported since a boy.

Since his retirement as a player, Hartson has proved himself an articulate and knowledgeable football commentator for media outlets, including the BBC.

Hartson seemed destined to move into football management and has been linked with vacant posts at the likes of Falkirk, Swansea and East Stirlingshire.

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