Dick Vitale says vocal cord issues have returned, reveals plan for treatment
More than one year after ringing the bell signifying his victory over lymphoma, Dick Vitale took to Twitter to share an unfortunate update on his health.
The long-time ESPN personality is still cancer-free, however, past vocal cord issues are back, which will require two rounds of surgery and significant recovery time.
Despite the bad news, Dickie V is keeping his spirits high.
“Rec’d some bad news, but when I realize it is minor to what some face daily I will fight to recover,” Vitale tweeted. “Dr Zeitels acclaimed vocal cord surgeon has informed me my past issues on my vocal cords have returned. I must have 2 surgeries this summer-1st July 11 need ur (prayers)…
“The biggest challenge is that I am currently on voice rest in preparation for surgery on July 11 & post surgery I must be on total voice rest for 6-8 weeks in recovery. That part is so frustrating as I feel trapped not being able to express myself. The positive news Dr Z is optimistic to have me ready for my 45th yr on ESPN…
“A big thank you to CEO. Jimmy Pitaro of ESPN & all my colleagues for their fantastic support. My biggest fear is that it will hurt me in raising $$$ for kids vs cancer @TheVFoundation -also I will NEVER GIVE UP !”
Vitale preparing for his 45th year on ESPN
Despite his health challenges, it sounds like Vitale is fully committed to a 45th season of coverage college basketball.
Vitale’s battle with lymphoma last year was his second bout with cancer. He beat melanoma in 2021 as well. His lymphoma diagnosis came a couple of months after that but he continued to call basketball games until his vocal cord issues forced him to pause before March Madness.
Vitale has been a staple at ESPN since joining the network 41 years ago. He coached at the college level as an assistant at Rutgers and served as Detroit Mercy’s head coach from 1973-77.
Vitale served as the Detroit Pistons head coach from 1978-79 before he got a microphone in his hand, eventually becoming one of the most beloved figures in college basketball.