Wales international footballer David Brooks has revealed that he has been diagnosed with cancer.
The 24-year-old midfielder, who has played his club football for Bournemouth since 2018, withdrew from the most recent Wales squad because of illness.
He has now confirmed that he has stage two Hodgkin lymphoma, in a statement released on social media.
A post shared by David Brooks (@db_36)
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system.
It mainly affects young adults in their early 20s, or those over the age of 70.
• A swelling in the neck, armpit, or groin
• Night sweats
• Unintentional weight loss
• High temperature
• A persistent cough or feeling of breathlessness
• Persistent itching of the skin all over the body
For more information about Hodgkin lymphoma, visit the dedicated NHS page.
Brooks said: “This is a very difficult message for me to write. I have been diagnosed with Stage II Hodgkin Lymphoma and will begin a course of treatment next week.
“Although this has come as a shock to myself and my family, the prognosis is a positive one and I am confident that I will make a full recovery and be back playing as soon as possible.
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“I’d like to show my appreciation to the doctors, nurses, consultants and staff who have been treating me for their professionalism, warmth and understanding during this period.
“I want to thank everyone at the Football Association of Wales because without the swift attention of their medical team we may not have detected the illness.
“I’d also like to say thank you to AFC Bournemouth for all of their support and assistance this past week.”
Brooks has made nine appearances in all competitions for Bournemouth this season, scoring three goals.
He has played 91 times for the club in total, including nine games during their last stint in the Premier League in the 2019-20 season.
His statement added: “Although I appreciate that there will be media attention and interest, I would like to ask that my privacy is respected in the coming months and I will share updates on my progress when I am able to do so.
“In the meantime, thank you to everyone for their messages of support – it means so much and will continue to do so in the months ahead.
“I look forward to seeing you all again and playing the sport I love very soon.”
We can confirm that midfielder David Brooks has been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma.
We’re all behind you, Brooksy ❤️#afcb 🍒
Brooks was born in Warrington and spent his youth career at Manchester City, joining Sheffield United in 2014.
He made his first-team debut for the Blades in 2016 and played 30 games before joining Bournemouth.
The midfielder was called up to the Wales squad in 2017 by Chris Coleman, and has made 21 appearances. He was also part of Wales’ Euro 2020 squad.