Mitchell Meyers battled his way into the starting lineup his sophomore season at Iowa State this past season. Now, ahead of the 2015 season, the defensive lineman has an off-field battle in which to engage.
ISU announced Thursday afternoon that Meyers has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The disease is essentially cancer of the lymph nodes and, as it progresses, it compromises your body’s ability to fight infection.
The good news for Meyers is that ISU team physician Dr. Marc Shulman said in a statement that “Mitchell’s diagnosis is very treatable with a 90 percent curable rate.” The normal treatment program lasts at least four months, Shulman added.
While not specifically stated, Meyers will certainly be a non-participant in spring practice. It’s still unclear if he’ll be available for the start of summer camp in six months or so, or if he’ll be able to resume his career at all.
“Mitchell’s immediate health is our most important concern right now,” head coach Paul Rhoads said in a statement. “I have no doubt that Mitchell will attack this with a positive mindset and strong determination. He also will have 100 percent support from the Iowa State football family and Cyclone Nation.”
Meyers started all 12 games in 2014, first at defensive end and then at defensive tackle. He was one of just four Cyclones at any position to start every game in 2014.
“I want to thank everyone for the support and encouragement I have received,” the player said. “I am determined to embrace the process and fight this with a positive attitude.
“I have decided to stay here in Ames for my treatments so I can remain in school and be around my teammates. I have the greatest teammates in the world. It’s been humbling to see their care and words of encouragement. I would love to be able to play football at Iowa State again, but right now my focus is on my health.”
