Carlton co-captain Sam Docherty has revealed that his testicular cancer has returned.
The 27-year-old underwent surgery at the end of 2020 to remove a malignant testicular tumour, made a full recovery and featured for the Blues across the 2021 season.
However, Docherty took to Instagram on Monday night to reveal the shocking news, adding that he would undergo a round of chemotherapy as part of the treatment.
“It’s hard to know the right way to share this, I think the most important thing to do is to own my story authentically. In doing so, I hope to allow the narrative to run as it is intended. With purpose and to minimise speculation,” Docherty wrote in his post.
“Unfortunately life has thrown another curveball my way and my testicular cancer has recurred, sadly meaning that I will need to undergo a round of chemotherapy.
“It’s been a really tough few days processing the news and understanding what the next few months is going to look like for me. I’m extremely blessed to have such an amazing support team and so many people here to help.
“While I’m looking forward to getting back out on the track for pre-season, right now my focus is on my health and getting through this time and as such, I would appreciate the respect of my privacy through this difficult time. Lastly, if anything doesn’t feel right with your health please go get yourself checked. It could save your life.”
Docherty played 14 games for the Blues in 2021 and has played 122 career games, losing two seasons to torn ACLs.