George Karl had hoped to return to coaching in the NBA playoffs with his Denver Nuggets, but his treatment for throat and neck cancer has made that impossible.
Karl’s treatment has caused him to lose 25 pounds. His strength and stamina went right along with the weight loss. His mouth is full of sores and his neck is red and tender from the radiation. But now another problem has developed.
The 58 year old Karl was rushed to the hospital Friday afternoon with a blood clot in his right leg. Doctors have tried to determine the cause because Karl is already taking blood-thinning medication.
Karl was diagnosed with cancer late last year and informed his players and the media after coaching the Western Conference in the all-star game in February. He began a six-week chemotherapy and radiation treatment schedule.
With Karl on the bench, the Nuggets were 42-21. Without him, Denver went 12-12 and were eliminate by Utah in the first round of the playoffs 4 games to 2.
Karl appeared from his home on an ESPN feature and he was a shadow of himself. Karl is fragile and is clearly fighting to make it through this torturous treatment program.
Seeing Karl is a reminder of just how cruel cancer is. If you believe in the power of prayer, keep coach Karl in mind. He is truly fighting for his life!