Dwyane Wade had surgery following a cancer diagnosis just over a year ago.
The three-time NBA champion, who played for the Miami Heat, discussed his ongoing struggles during a recent episode of his podcast, The WY Network, on Thursday.
“They conducted a thorough examination of my entire body and discovered an issue with my right kidney,” he explained, noting that he sought medical attention due to his father’s previous battle with prostate cancer.
The former NBA star underwent surgery on December 18, 2023, and it was confirmed that the tumor was cancerous, leading to the removal of 40% of his right kidney.
“Experiencing that surgery marked a pivotal moment; it was the first time my family—my dad and my children—saw me in a vulnerable state,” he shared, reflecting on his feelings, “That moment was probably the most fragile I’ve ever felt in my life.”
After leaving Marquette University in 2003, Wade was selected as the fifth overall pick in the NBA draft by the Heat. His initial 13-year tenure with the Miami franchise was crowned with championships in 2006, 2012, and 2023. In 2016, he signed a two-year deal with the Chicago Bulls, and in 2017, he joined the Cleveland Cavaliers to reunite with former teammate LeBron James. He concluded his career with the Heat, making 72 appearances during the 2018-19 regular season.
Following his retirement from professional basketball, the Chicago native became a minority owner of both the NBA’s Utah Jazz and the WNBA’s Chicago Sky.