Cancer

published : 2023-09-06

Former NFL Quarterback Alex Smith Reveals Heartbreaking Battle

Family lives 'scan to scan' after daughter's brain tumor diagnosis

Former NFL quarterback Alex Smith with his daughter Sloane, bravely fighting against brain cancer (Taken with Nikon D850)

Former NFL quarterback Alex Smith recently shared the devastating news of his 7-year-old daughter's battle with brain cancer.

In a heartfelt interview with The New York Times, Smith disclosed that his daughter Sloane was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer in May 2022.

The diagnosis came just a month after Sloane was rushed to the hospital with stroke-like symptoms.

An emergency surgery was conducted to remove the tumor, lasting a grueling 10 hours.

The procedure was successful in removing 100% of the tumor, bringing some relief to the family.

However, their relief was short-lived as it was discovered that a small piece of the tumor had been missed.

Alex Smith, a source of inspiration for his family as he overcame a devastating leg injury (Taken with Canon EOS R)

This revelation led to a second 10-hour surgery, further prolonging the family's ordeal.

Smith shared the emotional rollercoaster they experienced, describing the surgeries as the most excruciating times of their lives.

Despite the challenges they faced, Smith expressed his gratitude to the incredible neurosurgeons at Stanford Medicine Children's Health.

Smith's wife, Elizabeth, drew strength from her husband's own remarkable comeback after a severe leg injury, which required 17 surgeries.

She believes that their children can find hope in witnessing their father's triumphant journey.

As a family, they strive to maintain a sense of normalcy, even though the uncertainty of their daughter's condition looms over them.

The Smith family, resilient in the face of uncertainty, fighting together for their daughter's health (Taken with Sony Alpha a7 III)

Elizabeth admitted that they don't know when or if the tumor will reappear due to its rarity.

The Smiths face an unpredictable future, but they remain resilient and committed to fighting alongside their daughter.

Alex Smith's professional career spanned 16 seasons in the NFL, culminating in his recognition as the 2020 Comeback Player of the Year.

Paulina Dedaj, a Sports Reporter for Fox News Digital, contributed to this article.