In a moving Instagram post, Liam Hendricks shared his non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis. Find out more.
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Liam Hendricks is updating fans on his health.
The Chicago White Sox pitcher took to Instagram on Jan. 8 to share that he was recently diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
“As a professional athlete, I have always been mindful to try and use my position in the public eye to the most positive ends possible by shining a light on causes or issues that touch close to home for myself, my wife and my family,” the 33-year-old wrote. “It is in that spirit that I want to share some personal health news I have learned in the past few days, and do so on my own terms.”
Liam—who married Kristi Hendriks in 2013—continued, “Hearing the word ‘cancer’ came as a shock to my wife and I, as it does to millions of families each year. However, I am resolved to embrace the fight and overcome this new challenge with the same determination I have used when facing other obstacles in my life.”
The MLB star went on to note that he is starting treatment immediately and is “confident that I will make a full recovery and be back on the mound as soon as possible.”
He added, “I know with the support of my wife, my family, my teammates and the Chicago White Sox organization, along with the treatment and care from my doctors, I will get through this.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a form of cancer where white blood cells grow abnormally and can form growths throughout the body.
Following his announcement, his team shared a statement on Twitter expressing their support.
“Our thoughts and reactions at this time are for Liam the person, not Liam the baseball player,” White Sox general manager Rick Hahn said in a statement. “I know the entire Chicago White Sox organization, our staff, his teammates, and certainly White Sox fans, will rally in support of Liam and Kristi during the coming months.”
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He concluded, “Knowing everyone involved, especially Liam, we are optimistic he will pitch again for the White Sox as soon as viable. In the meantime, we all will do everything in our power to support our teammate and his family as they face this challenge, while also respecting their privacy.”
Liam is a three-time all-star and one of the premiere closers in baseball. Throughout his career, he has played with the Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays and Oakland Athletics.