Bristol Rovers defender Nick Anderton has started chemotherapy after the rare bone cancer he’s being treated for was revealed to be more aggressive than first diagnosed.
Anderton was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer in July, after a routine medical check discovered a tumour in his leg. The 26-year-old, who was a key and much-loved member of Rovers’ promotion-winning squad last season, underwent an operation at the start of October to remove the tumour.
But after conducting further analysis, a biopsy has discovered that the cancerous cells were more aggressive than previously thought and Anderton has now started several months of chemotherapy.
In a statement, Rovers said: “Obviously, this has come as a shock to Nick and his family, and the club would like to reiterate its unwavering support for him.”
Chemotherapy is the process in which powerful drugs are used to stop the growth of cancer cells, even by killing them or stopping them from dividing.
“As a club, we are extremely close so, when we hear news like we have received with Nick, it affects everyone,” CEO Tom Gorringe said. “Sadly, the prognosis Nick has received has developed over the past few months, but we are all incredibly thankful that it was uncovered as early as it was and that he has been afforded such great care and support early on.
“Nick remains an integral part of our squad and everyone has remained in constant contact with him to offer our support and to do what we can to try and help him and his family through this difficult time.
“Nick’s response and positivity, despite the adversity he is currently facing, is admirable and he is an inspiration to us all. I have no doubt that he will tackle his chemotherapy like he has the various hurdles that have been placed in front of him already and we look forward to welcoming him back to The Mem once his course has finished.”
Anderton remains under contract at Rovers this season, with the Gas honouring the terms of his agreement, and his No16 jersey remains hung in the dressing room at every game. Rovers fans have delivered a minute’s applause showing support for the defender at each of their league encounters this season.
Anderton was a guest at the Mem in September to watch the Gas draw 2-2 with Morecambe and, in an interview with BBC Radio Bristol, revealed how he has been “blown away” by the support he has received.
“I would like to thank my family, friends, fans, teammates and the whole football community for their support - it means the world to me,” said Anderton, in his latest statement.
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