Hawthorn key forward Jarryd Roughead will be sidelined from AFL footy for an indefinite amount of time, after the club announced he would be undergoing treatment for skin cancer.
Roughead has suffered a recurrence of melanoma and will undergo a biopsy that will determine the best course of treatment for him.
It was in July of last year that club doctors first discovered a lesion on Roughead’s lip that was fortunately in its very early stages. Successful surgery removed the cancer entirely and Roughead returned to footy, however it would appear that the cancer has now returned.
The club issued a statement through their General Manager of Football Operations Chris Fagan confirming the news a short while ago.
“Jarryd went for a regular check-up yesterday and unfortunately a recurrence of melanoma was detected.”“The positive is that it’s been picked up early and Jarryd is in the best hands possible.”“Jarryd’s health is the most important issue at this time. His long-term playing future is very-much secondary to that and is not even a consideration at this point in time. ““This is a private medical matter and we would ask everyone to respect Jarryd and his family’s request for privacy during this time.”
Roughead, who has extremely fair skin, is known to be super vigilant with regards to skin and sun safety, and has regular skin checks with his club doctors.
This photo of Roughead taken from pre-season training shows the lengths he’s been going to to stay sun-safe, particularly around the head and face – areas which are particularly susceptible to melanoma.
The Hawks will not comment on any potential time frame for Roughead’s treatment and recovery.
Best of luck to you, Jarryd. Knock this shit on its head.
Source: Hawthorn FC.
Photo: Adam Trafford, AFL Media, Darrian Traynor/Getty.
