Dwyane Wade, the legendary NBA star and Chicago native, recently revealed that he was diagnosed with kidney cancer and underwent surgery to remove 40% of his right kidney. Speaking on The WY Network podcast, Wade shared that after retiring from basketball, he was no longer getting regular checkups. However, knowing his father had battled prostate cancer, he decided to take control of his health and undergo a full-body scan, which ultimately led to the discovery of his tumor.
Following his diagnosis, Wade underwent surgery on December 18, 2023, to remove the cancerous tumor. The experience was a major challenge, both physically and emotionally, as it marked one of the weakest moments of his life. The former Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls guard reflected on how difficult it was for his family to see him in such a vulnerable state. Despite the hardship, Wade has since committed to living life differently, emphasizing the importance of health awareness, particularly among men.
A proud product of Chicago’s South Side, Wade made a name for himself at Harold L. Richards High School before leading Marquette University to the NCAA Final Four in 2003. Drafted fifth overall by the Miami Heat that same year, he became a three-time NBA champion and one of the greatest players in franchise history. His journey later took him to the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers before he returned to Miami to finish his career.
Beyond basketball, Wade remains deeply connected to the game and his hometown. In 2023, he became a part-owner of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, further cementing his impact on the sport. His recent health battle has inspired him to advocate for regular checkups and self-care, encouraging others to prioritize their well-being.