*Photo from OutSports*
This is never the news that anyone wants to here, and it's always devastating. Chicago White Sox closer Liam Hendriks announced that he has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and will immediately begin treatment.
Hendriks said in a statement that "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. 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."
"Recently I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. 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."
"My treatment begins tomorrow, and I am confident that I will make a full recovery and be back on the mound as soon as possible. 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."
The soon to be 34 year old Hendriks had a 38 save season in 2021, followed by 37 saves last season. He and his wife Kristi have been strong forces in the Chicago community, with Hendriks being the White Sox nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award in 2022.
Hendriks, a native of Australia, signed with the White Sox prior to the 2021 season, and has played in 12 major league seasons, suiting up for the White Sox, Oakland Athletics, Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, and Toronto Blue Jays. He's a 3 time all star and has 115 career saves.
White Sox senior vice president and GM Rick Hahn said in a statement that "Our thoughts and reactions at this time are for Liam the person, not Liam the baseball player. 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."
"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. We do not expect to have any updates on Liam’s playing status prior to Opening Day at the very earliest."
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