Jason Collins: A Journey Through Adversity and Advocacy
After revealing his battle with a brain tumor in September, Jason Collins—the first openly gay player in the NBA—has opened up about his experience in a heartfelt essay. The former Brooklyn Nets center shared his harrowing journey with stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in a compelling article published by ESPN on December 11.
The Initial Diagnosis
Collins begins by explaining the intention behind the initial family statement. He describes it as a protective measure, allowing them to navigate a challenging time while he was mentally incapable of advocating for himself. “It was time for people to hear directly from me,” he emphasized, revealing the distressing nature of his diagnosis: “I have Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. It came on incredibly fast.”
Early Symptoms
The first warning signs emerged in August, coinciding with plans to attend the U.S. Open with his husband, film producer Brunson Green. Collins recalls moments of disorientation and focus issues severe enough that they missed their flight. It wasn’t until a CT scan that the serious nature of his condition became apparent. He humorously compared his short-term memory to Dory from Finding Nemo, reflecting on how quickly things escalated. “Over the next few weeks, we would find out just how bad it was,” he writes, foreshadowing the challenges ahead.
Understanding Glioblastoma
A crucial part of Collins’ story is the medical understanding of glioblastoma. His biopsy confirmed the tumor, which displayed a “butterfly” shape across both hemispheres of his brain—indicative of glioblastoma and complicating potential surgical intervention. The findings were alarming; doctors noted a growth factor of 30 percent, indicating the urgency of treatment, as the tumor could become fatal within weeks without action.
Treatment and Recovery
After diagnosis, Collins began radiation therapy promptly. By October, as he focused on his recovery, he was already walking again—a testament to his resilience. Throughout this experience, Collins took the time to educate his readers about the nature of glioblastoma, highlighting its dangerous attributes. The tumor’s capacity for rapid growth within the confined space of the skull and its strategic location near key brain areas such as the frontal lobe were particularly concerning.
Staying Composed
What stands out in Collins’ essay is his remarkable composure in facing this daunting adversity. He attributes his calm demeanor to his experiences as an athlete and as a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community. “As an athlete, you learn not to panic in moments like this,” he writes, equating this battle to facing a formidable opponent on the basketball court. “These are the cards I’ve been dealt. To me it’s like, ‘Shut up and go play against Shaq.’”
A Life of Advocacy and Love
Collins has a rich history in the NBA, playing 13 seasons with various teams, including the Timberwolves, Celtics, and Wizards. His public coming out in 2013 marked a significant milestone in sports history, as he became the first openly gay player to compete in the NBA. Since then, he has been a vocal proponent for LGBTQ+ visibility, using his platform to inspire others.
In the midst of his medical challenges, Collins also experienced profound personal happiness by marrying Brunson Green in May. These dual narratives of struggle and joy resonate deeply, showcasing the complexities of life that coexist even in the face of severe illness.
A Powerful Message
Through his journey, Jason Collins continues to exemplify courage and resilience. His willingness to share the intimate details of his medical battle not only educates but also inspires those facing similar challenges. As he navigates this difficult terrain, Collins reaffirms the importance of advocacy, love, and the unwavering spirit of an athlete determined to confront whatever life throws his way.