Ewing’s Sarcoma Strikes Boston College Linebacker Mark Herzlich

For all you college football fans out there, the league received some sad news as it was announced that Boston College linebacker, Mark Herzlich, has been diagnosed with a form of cancer known as Ewing’s Sarcoma.

For all you college football fans out there, the league received some sad news as it was announced that Boston College linebacker, Mark Herzlich, has been diagnosed with a form of cancer known as Ewing’s Sarcoma.

Herzlich, an upcoming senior at Boston College, was named ACC’s Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the Butkus award, given to the nation’s top linebacker. In a statement released by the school, Herzlich said, “Obviously, I was shocked. I had been extremely focused on preparing for my senior season at Boston College and for life beyond that. Now, I must channel all that energy into facing my toughest opponent yet, and that is exactly what I will do.”

What is Ewing’s Sarcoma?

Ewing’s Sarcoma is a rare disease in which cancer cells are found in the bone or soft tissue. It is most commonly found in the pelvis, femur, tibia, humerus and the ribs. Ewing's sarcoma cells can also spread to other areas of the body including the bone marrow, lungs, kidneys, heart, adrenal gland, and other soft tissues. It occurs most often in males aged 10-20.

The following are common symptoms of Ewing's sarcoma:
•    pain around the site of the tumor
•    swelling and/or redness around the site of the tumor
•    fever
•    weight loss, decreased appetite
•    fatigue
•    paralysis and/or incontinence (if the tumor is in the spinal region)
•    symptoms related to nerve compression from a tumor (i.e., numbness, tingling, paralysis, etc.)

The treatment options include radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and stem cell replacement.

Where does Herzlich go from here?

Herzlich has returned home to his native Pennsylvania to be with his family and seek an effective course of treatment. Although he doesn’t know at this time what this diagnosis means for the future of his football career, he’s staying positive about the outcome. “I am determined to rid my body of this disease so that I can put that uniform back on,” he said. “Thank you in advance for your prayers and concern. Together, we will fight this and win."