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Former Vol and current Kansas City Chiefs safety Eric Berry has discovered a mass in his chest that is believed to be a forum of cancer known as lymphoma.
The Chiefs placed Berry on the non-football injury reserve list on Monday and will await an official diagnosis from doctors at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, where Berry will visit a specialist.
Berry reportedly was experiencing chest pain when the Chiefs played the Raiders on Thursday night.
“I am truly thankful for all of the support from family, friends, coaches, teammates and the entire Chiefs kingdom,” Berry said in a statement. “At first I was in shock with the diagnosis on Saturday and did not even want to miss a game, but I understand that right now I have to concentrate on a new opponent.”
“I have great confidence in the doctors and the plan they are going to put in place for me to win this fight. I believe that I am in God’s hands and I have great peace in that. I know my coaches and teammates will hold things down here the rest of the season and until I am back running out of the tunnel at Arrowhead.”
“I am so thankful and appreciative of being a part of this franchise and playing in front of the best fans in the NFL. I will be back!”
The Chiefs trainer, Rick Burkholder, said an official diagnosis hasn’t been made as of yet, but lymphoma is “the leading consideration.” More tests are needed to officially diagnose the illness and, assuming suspicions are confirmed, determine the staging of the cancer.
During his required June physical, Berry checked out fine according to Burkholder.
“Eric is as strong and courageous as anyone I know, and when I spoke to him (Saturday) night, I felt his strength and faith through the phone,” Berry’s agent, Chad Speck said.
“I know I can speak for everyone at A3 when I saw it is an honor to work for such a great person like Eric. We love him, are praying for him and support him 100% as he battles this disease. I know Eric is appreciative of all the prayers and support he is receiving.”
Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Berry’s attitude was positive as he addressed the team.
“He was upbeat and very positive,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He was awesome. He’s not one that likes to do a lot of talking. But he felt like the team needed to hear it from him that he’s OK and that he’s going to get after this thing and get it fixed.
“We know it’s going to work out for Eric,” Reid said. “He’s a beast and right now he needs to be a beast. He’ll attack this along with Dr. Flowers. I think it will be a very positive result when all is said and done.”
Berry is 25 years old.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]