John Metchie III Health: Texans WR's Status After Tragic Diagnosis Disclosed
John Metchie III, rookie wide receiver of Houston Texans, revealed his prognosis after learning about his health status.
On Sunday, Metchie shared saddening news that he might miss the 2022 season soon after his doctor diagnosed him with leukemia. The athlete, per Fox News Digital, will reportedly focus on his treatment while he is away.
Still, he assured his fans that the prognosis is good since the type of leukemia he has is the most curable form.
"Recently, I was diagnosed with APL (Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia), the most curable form of leukemia. I am currently receiving great medical care, am in good spirits and I expect to make a recovery at a later point in time," he said, adding, "Thank you in advance for your support and well wishes. I cannot wait to come back stronger than ever. God bless."
According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, APL is an aggressive type of acute myeloid leukemia. It causes a shortage of normal red and white blood cells. It is, however, noted that it is now considered a highly curable disease with a 75 percent to 84 percent survival rate in two years.
A huge part of the success rate can be assured through All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), part of the standard therapy for APL. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society also states that it is given with chemotherapy.
Team, Athletes Send Well Wishes to John Metchie III
After the news broke, athletes and coaches in the industry sent heartfelt messages to Metchie amid his health battle.
Alabama coach Nick Saban said, "John has overcome every challenge placed in front of him in his life with toughness and determination and we are behind him every step of the way in his fight against leukemia."
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Saban also served as his college's coach.
🙏🏽Dawgnation I beg you all to please cover John Metchie III in your prayers, as he has announced a Leukemia diagnosis.
— 🚫 LEE Ring (@HBTFD1) July 24, 2022
My Lord please cover him🙏🏽🙏🏽
He played three seasons at Alabama, recording 155 catches for 2,081 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also caught 96 passes for 1,142 yards on top of eight touchdowns.
In 2021, his season ended in the SEC Championship Game after sustaining torn ACL. ESPN's Mark Schlabach was the first to report the injury.
In videos that went viral at that time, it can be seen that Metchie stopped and turned before going down during the game.
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