This morning, Central Michigan head coach John Bonamego met with his team to inform them that he has been diagnosed with a "very treatable" form of cancer affecting his left tonsil.
According to coach Bonamego's statement, and those we have spoken with familiar with the situation, the cancer was discovered "very early" and the particular form of cancer is considered highly treatable. Patients with this type of diagnosis have a 90% success rate.
Coach Bono released the following statement and video (above) on the recent discovery this morning via the CMU website:
Dear faculty, staff, students, alumni, fans and friends,
This morning I met with our student-athletes and coaches to let them know I have been diagnosed with cancer in my left tonsil. As I told our team, I WILL beat this. It was discovered early and is very treatable.
An excellent team of doctors here in Mount Pleasant and in Ann Arbor are overseeing my care. While a diagnosis like this is always scary, I am blessed to have the love and support of my family and those around me -- including all of you. I know I will never be alone and for that I am very thankful.
I will continue to coach during my treatment, although I'll make some adjustments such as attending fewer external events for a couple of months. As I've said many times since returning to CMU in February, we have one of the best staffs in the nation, and we will accomplish our goals together.
Our student-athletes are doing great and continue to work hard this summer in our strength and conditioning program. I am so proud to be their -- and your -- head football coach. We look forward to seeing you Sept. 3 for the opening game against Oklahoma State!
Fire Up Chips!
John Bonamego
Please join us in keeping coach Bonomego in your thoughts and prayers as he begins this journey to beat his cancer.