How Coach Prime conquered cancer

Colorado coach Deion Sanders defeated bladder cancer this summer. His last appearance in Boulder before the fight was April's spring game. (Photo by Madison Kerest/Sko Buffs Sports)

To open Monday’s press conference, Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders dropped the bomb that he had fought and won a battle with bladder cancer.

A screening back in April revealed the formation of a cancerous tumor on the bladder that needed a surgical procedure to be removed. Now cancer-free and back in Boulder, Coach Prime revealed what helped him through the difficult time. 

“It has been a tremendous journey and I am truly thankful that God is good,” Sanders said. “God is so good. You have no idea how good God has been to have me here.”

Coach Prime has never shied away from his Christian faith. During his opening remarks, Sanders was adamant in thanking God for his recovery. While nursing back to health, Sanders spent time in his home in Texas, doing his best to fish while keeping the situation private.

For a man born for the spotlight, Sanders' absence was peculiar and caught the attention of fans nationwide. He shared a list of family and friends who reached out and visited him in the hospital while thanking the fans as well. 

Sanders highlighted fellow Hall of Famer Randy Moss, who recently overcame cancer himself, as his biggest inspiration in the process. 

“I’m thankful they came to give me love and support and pray for me,” Sanders said. “Randy Moss called me every other day to make sure I was straight. I love him to life. I pray he’s going to come to a game this year.” 

If it weren't for early detection, Sanders’ situation could have been a lot worse. Regular check-ups helped Sanders catch the issue quickly and find the next best steps for him. Coach Prime urged men and women across the country to seek screening and visit the doctor regularly. 

Even after a near-death experience, the personality and persona of Coach Prime were unwavering when discussing his path back. 

“A lot of blessings come with the luggage of tribulation and trials,” Sanders said. “But if you are built for the trial, you enjoy the journey…I’m built for this, man. I’m built for this.”

Sanders will still face challenges throughout the season as he learns to navigate coaching with a bladder made from his intestine. He acknowledged the difficulty of his journey while still standing strong for the others who have suffered like him. 

Cancer is a disease that has affected countless lives throughout time, taking and destroying what comes in its path. A grateful Sanders understood the magnitude of his condition but left a powerful message when discussing his return to the team.

“I've got too much life to be thinking about death,” Sanders said.