Buffalo Bills legend Jim Kelly has been diagnosed with cancer in his upper jaw, according to a statement released from Kelly through the team's web site. The Hall of Fame quarterback also said that he is scheduled to have surgery on Friday, June 7, and that the doctors are optimistic about his recovery.
Jim Kelly diagnosed with cancer
The former Bills’ legend is scheduled for surgery on June 7.
USA TODAY Sports
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From the team’s statement:
”This past couple of weeks has been difficult for me and because of the nature of social media I thought it would be best to share with everyone what has been going on with my health. I was recently diagnosed with Squamous-cell carcinoma (cancer) of the upper jaw bone. I have undergone tests which have shown that the cancer is isolated to my upper jaw and has not spread to other parts of my body. Surgery is scheduled for June 7th and doctors have told me that the prognosis for my recovery is very good.
With the excellent medical care that I will be receiving and the loving care of my wife Jill and my daughters Erin and Camryn and the support of my entire family and friends, I am extremely confident in my road to recovery. I plan to tackle this challenge head on, as we Kelly’s always do, with toughness, perseverance and faith.
I want to thank everyone who has offered their prayers and would appreciate any prayers said for me and my family moving forward. May God continue to bless you and our family.”
Kelly was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio in 2002 after a career highlighted by four Super Bowl appearances. Kelly was the Bills’ first-round choice in the 1983 NFL Draft and started 160 games in his 11-year career with the team, ending his career with a 101-59 regular-season record. Kelly was also a five-time Pro Bowl selection and one-time All Pro.
Kelly’s best season came in 1991 when he led the NFL with 33 touchdowns.
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