College Basketball Analyst Dick Vitale Diagnosed with Melanoma
Filmogaz.com reports that College basketball analyst Dick Vitale announced new biopsy results on Monday, April 13. The tests confirmed melanoma in both his lung and liver cavity.
Diagnosis and treatment plan
ESPN’s public relations account posted Vitale’s statement on X. He said he will begin immunotherapy soon.
Vitale expressed confidence about the outcome. He wrote he has beaten multiple cancers and expects to do so again.
Medical testing and symptoms
The analyst underwent a biopsy at a Sarasota hospital last week. Doctors performed a PET scan, a CAT scan and two MRIs before the biopsy.
- He said abnormalities appeared on routine testing.
- Vitale shared that the PET scan “shocked” him.
- He also reported recent sleeplessness and worry while awaiting results.
Health history
Vitale has faced several cancers in recent years. He listed prior diagnoses that include lymphoma, vocal cord cancer, lymph node cancer and an earlier melanoma.
He noted he had been declared cancer-free last year. He returned to broadcasting, most recently for the First Four game between Texas and North Carolina State.
His outlook
Vitale said he is “feeling fantastic” despite the diagnosis. He added he is “four-for-four” and fully confident he will make it “five-for-five.”
Support and reaction
He thanked family and colleagues for their support. Vitale singled out his ESPN family, led by chairman Jimmy Pitaro, for their encouragement.
He said the messages and prayers have been overwhelming. That support has strengthened his resolve to fight the disease.
