LSU’s Greg Brooks Jr. diagnosed with rare brain cancer. What is medulloblastoma?
Any future in the game of football is now of far lesser importance, as the LSU defensive back faces a daunting reality where his very well-being is concerned.
“We have a long road ahead and are appreciative of the support from our LSU family and Tiger fans,” the Brooks family said in a statement released by LSU on Wednesday. From us here at AS USA, we wish Greg Brooks Jr. a full and speedy recovery.
LSU’s Greg Brooks Jr. diagnosed with rare brain cancer
In a sad announcement on Wednesday, Louisiana State University (LSU) confirmed that defensive back Greg Brooks Jr. had been diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. The results of the biopsy come following an operation that the second-year player underwent in September to remove a brain tumor. To that end, Brooks has not played for LSU’s football team since a Week 2 win against Grambling State. It’s worth noting that prior to that game, Brooks had been ruled out for what Tigers coach Brian Kelly called a “medical emergency.” It is understood that he was suffering from episodes of vertigo during the off-season.
Speaking with the media, Catherine O’Neal, Chief Medical Officer at Our Lady of the Lake Health in Baton Rouge, Louisiana gave an update on Brooks’ status. “For the last three weeks, Greg has been recovering from an extensive surgery to remove a brain tumor that was located between his cerebellum and brainstem,” said O’Neal. “The surgery was successful in removing the tumor, and there is no evidence that the cancer has spread.” Dr. O’Neal also went on to explain that while Brooks’ “speech and ability to communicate has been impacted” by the cancer, he is in fact “responsive and working daily with physical therapy.” She concluded by saying the 22-year-old faces “months of intensive rehabilitation.”
What is medulloblastoma?
According to the National Cancer Institute, medulloblastoma is “a primary central nervous system (CNS) tumor. This means it begins in the brain or spinal cord.” Described as a “very fast-growing” form of cancer, it can also spread to the bones or lymphatic system. Symptoms can include but are not limited to issues with walking, balance, and/or fine motor skills, as well as headaches, nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. The 5-year survival rate for medulloblastoma is 72.1%, however, this depends on multiple factors such as traits of the tumor itself, age, health, and of course how the individual responds to treatment.
Greg Brooks Jr. has a lot of support
Having appeared in two games this season, Brooks, who was voted team captain, will see his season end with a total of eight tackles and two passes defended. An impressive tally for such a short period of time. Prior to joining the LSU Tigers, he spent the first three years of his collegiate career with the Arkansas Razorbacks, a fact not forgotten by the program which posted “We’re all with him for the battle!” on its official X account.
If there is one positive in all of this, it’s the fact that Brooks has been shown a whole lot of love and support. From the Greg Brooks Victory Fund which has been started in his name, to the comments from his former coach at Arkansas where he played between 2019 and 2022, it’s clear that the young DB has moved people. “Greg was a wonderful kid when he was here and did a great job for us,” Arkansas coach Sam Pittman said last month. As for what lies ahead for Brooks, that’s difficult to say but what is certain is that he won’t be alone. “Victories are rarely achieved alone, which is why we’re calling on fans from around the world to rally behind The Greg Brooks Victory Fund,” LSU President William F. Tate IV said, while head coach Brian Kelly added, “We ask that you help the Brooks family and support the fund as he continues in the journey ahead.”