BC Standout Herzlich Diagnosed with Cancer

Mark Herzlich may not be a household name, but he’s a rising star at Boston College and was named 2008’s defensive play of the year for the ACC. That’s really saying something when six ACC defensive players were drafted in the first two rounds this year. Teammate B.J. Raji was actually a top-ten draftee. Herzlich decided to come back for a senior year at Boston College, though.

If anyone can kick cancer's ass, it's this guy. Image: Newscom

Today, Herzlich announed that he’s been diagnosed with cancer. Called Ewing’s Sarcoma, the condition causes malignant tumors, usually found in the bones or soft tissues. Says Herzlich,

“Obviously, I was shocked. I had been extremely focused on preparing for my senior season at Boston College and for life beyond that. Now, I must channel all that energy into facing my toughest opponent yet, and that is exactly what I will do.
At this point, I do not know what this means for my football future, but I am determined to rid my body of this disease so that I can put that uniform back on. Thank you in advance for your prayers and concern. Together, we will fight this and win.”

Our prayers are with Herzlich and his family. Even though the five-year survival rate is pretty high when this type of cancer is detected early, it is still going to be a long battle.