After receiving a Hodgkin’s Lymphoma diagnosis, Foster Moreau made the following announcement on his social media accounts: “I will take a permanent vacation from the game of football.” After spending four years in Las Vegas, the star tight end for the Raiders was experimenting with free agency. The New Orleans Saints performed a physical on Moreau, and during that procedure, he received his cancer diagnosis.
Although Foster Moreau did not go into detail about how the cancer was discovered, the word “miraculous” suggests that if it weren’t for the rigorous physical examination process required by potential NFL suitors, the illness might not have been discovered.
After four years with the Raiders, who selected him in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft and employed him as their backup tight end to Pro Bowler Darren Waller, Foster Moreau was expected to receive a respectable payday in free agency this offseason. Last season, on 54 targets, the LSU product recorded a career-high 33 catches, 420 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.
What is Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Foster Moreau is Suffering from?
Hodgkin’s lymphoma, also known as Hodgkin’s disease, is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system that helps the body fight infections and diseases.
Hodgkin’s lymphoma is characterized by the presence of abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells, which are usually found in the lymph nodes. These cells can spread to other parts of the body, such as the spleen, liver, bone marrow, and lungs.
Symptoms of Hodgkin’s lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, fatigue, weight loss, and itchy skin. The diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is usually made through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsy of the affected tissue.
Treatment typically involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in some cases, stem cell transplantation. With early detection and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for Hodgkin’s lymphoma is generally good, with a high rate of cure.
The Effects of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma could be:
Hodgkin’s lymphoma can have various adverse effects on the body, some of which can be related to the cancer itself or to the treatment received. Some of the possible adverse effects of Hodgkin’s lymphoma include:
Enlarged lymph nodes: The most common symptom of Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the swelling of lymph nodes, which can be uncomfortable and painful.
Fatigue: it can cause severe fatigue, which can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life.
Fever and night sweats: it can cause high fever and night sweats, which can disrupt sleep and cause discomfort.
Itchy skin: Patients may experience itchy skin, which can be caused by the release of chemicals from the abnormal cells.
Weight loss: Hodgkin’s lymphoma can cause significant weight loss, which can be due to a loss of appetite, increased metabolism, or the cancer itself.
Increased risk of infections: Hodgkin’s lymphoma can weaken the immune system, making patients more vulnerable to infections.
Nausea and vomiting: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy used to treat it can cause nausea and vomiting.
Hair loss: Chemotherapy can cause hair loss, which can be a distressing side effect for some patients.
Infertility: Some treatments for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, can cause infertility in both men and women.
Risk of secondary cancers: Patients with Hodgkin’s lymphoma may have an increased risk of developing other types of cancer later in life, especially if they received radiation therapy.
It is important to discuss any adverse effects or concerns with a healthcare provider to receive proper management and support.