Unfortunately, there’s sobering news coming out of Norman as a member of the Oklahoma football program is now facing a very significant and serious health issue.
As he acknowledged on his Twitter account Monday, and subsequently confirmed by SoonerScoop.com, Oklahoma center Austin Woods has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The website reported that Woods began chemotherapy yesterday, while the offensive lineman said he was diagnosed with Stage 3 of the disease last Thursday.
CancerResearchUK.org briefly outlines the various stages of the disease:
- Stage 1 means there is Hodgkin’s lymphoma in only 1 group of lymph nodes or lymphoma in 1 body organ only
- Stage 2 means Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2 or more groups of lymph nodes or an organ and 1 or more group of lymph nodes. In both cases, the 2 sites of lymphoma must be on the same side of the diaphragm
- Stage 3 means Hodgkin’s lymphoma on both sides of the diaphragm
- Stage 4 means that many groups of lymph nodes contain Hodgkin’s lymphoma and it has spread to body organs such as the liver, bones or lungs
In a tweet posted to his account very early this morning, Woods wrote simply, “Strong and positive attitude.” That tweet came after he had written “Fighters mentality. Round 1…” earlier in the day Monday, presumably prior to the initial round of chemotherapy.
Woods stated that he is doing his treatment the OU Stephenson Cancer Center. On his Facebook page, Woods has his current mindset on full display:
The Sooners have yet to address Woods’ health situation or what the long-term prognosis is for the junior, although that could happen as early as today.
According to the school’s official website, Woods was the starting deep snapper on place kicks and also saw action on the offensive line in four games. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Woods as he battles this insidious disease.
It’s always sad hearing about people coming down with cancer, especially kids his age. Here’s to a speedy recovery.
As a Longhorns fan, I’d like to state that the so-called hate of rivalry goes by the wayside when it comes to things like this. I’m sad to hear that it’s crept to such an advanced state in Austin, but this is a hard-working, good-natured kid whose drive and determination are going to be to his benefit as he fights this tough battle.
Mr. Woods, I’m confident that between your chemo, other treatments, and pure personal strength, you’re going to beat back this adversity that’s made its way into your life. I truly hope to see you get through this fully and quickly, and if possible, battling my Longhorns in the trenches again very soon.
As counterintuitive as it is for me to write this, boomer freakin’ sooner, big guy. I can’t speak for all Longhorns fans, but I seriously doubt there’s a person on either side of the Red River who isn’t pulling for you!
I’m a Hodgkins survivor. There are many of us out there. You will be one soon. Fight hard.
I have a cancer survivor in my immediate family and the family of southernpatriots has many who are survivors and one fighting cancer at this moment. We all are pulling for you down in the Bayou State as well. My thoughts and prayers are with you to win against this disease and live a long and prosperous life. Fight hard, big guy, everyone we know is pulling for you!
Austin, and Sooner Nation: My prayers are with Austin, his family and loved ones and the Sooner Nation during this difficult time in his life. May God lay his loving hands on him, keep him strong, and make the disease go into remission and NEVER become active again.
Here’s another Longhorn fan who wishes nothing but the best for OU’s Woods. Rivalry aside, football is just football. Woods has a much more serious concern, and I hope his treatment is successful, that he makes a full recovery, and that he’s on the field at the Cotton Bowl soon to play my Horns. Hook ‘Em and Boomer Sooner!