Tue Aug 05 12:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Colorado football coach Deion Sanders revealed that he battled bladder cancer and underwent surgery to remove his bladder. Doctors have declared him cured, though the recovery was challenging and involved creating a new bladder from his small intestine. Sanders kept the severity of his illness from many loved ones to allow them to focus on their goals, and only recently shared the news with his team. He hopes his openness will encourage others to get regular cancer screenings. Despite the ordeal, Sanders remains determined to coach this season.

**News Article:**

**Deion Sanders Announces Victory Over Bladder Cancer**

**BOULDER, Colo.** – University of Colorado football coach Deion Sanders revealed Monday that he successfully battled bladder cancer, undergoing surgery to remove his bladder after a tumor was discovered. Speaking at a Touchdown Club event, Sanders, alongside Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urological oncology at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, announced he is now cancer-free.

“This was not an easy task,” Sanders stated, emphasizing the challenges of the recovery process. Dr. Kukreja confirmed that Sanders is “cured,” adding that she uses the term cautiously.

The tumor was detected during a routine vascular exam, part of Sanders’ ongoing monitoring due to a history of blood clots. He kept the details of his diagnosis from his sons and top players, including Shedeur and Shilo Sanders, as well as Travis Hunter, during the NFL draft preparations, allowing them to concentrate on their professional aspirations.

Sanders acknowledged the significant lifestyle changes, including needing to use Depends and portable restrooms on the sidelines, and his humorous approach is meant to encourage others facing similar struggles. He emphasized the importance of regular cancer screenings. “Get checked out, get checked out,” Sanders urged. “Everyone knows someone who is affected or infected by the ‘C’ word.'”

Despite losing 25 pounds and undergoing a complex surgery that involved creating a new bladder from part of his small intestine, Sanders is medically cleared and determined to coach the Buffaloes this season. He met with his team Sunday to share the details of his journey. Sanders is entering his third season with Colorado.

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