Maddinson Opens Up About His Fight Against Testicular Cancer
Nic Maddinson’s battle against testicular cancer has shaped much of his past year. The former Test cricketer, who was dropped from the Blues team, faced a serious diagnosis earlier this year. He underwent surgery to remove a tumor, only to learn later that the cancer had spread.
Maddinson’s Diagnosis and Treatment Journey
Upon receiving his diagnosis, Maddinson faced a daunting reality. His cancer had reached his abdominal lymph nodes and lung. “Once I found out I had to have chemo, that was pretty hard to deal with,” he shared. This period was particularly challenging, as his wife, Bianca, was also pregnant with their second child, Wilder, who was born just weeks ago.
Chemo and Its Effects
- Start of Chemotherapy: Maddinson began a nine-week chemotherapy program in mid-May.
- Physical Side Effects: By the second or third week, he lost all his hair.
- Sleep Disruptions: He struggled with insomnia, often staying awake from 1 AM to 6 AM.
- Emotional Toll: He described the experience as “the slowest and longest nine weeks.”
Maddinson’s chemotherapy treatment concluded in mid-July. He returned to cricket for a practice session two weeks later at Cricket NSW headquarters in Olympic Park. This marked an important step towards resuming his career.
Positive Progress and Return to Cricket
By September, he received encouraging news that the treatments had been effective. This prompted him to begin preparations for a comeback in cricket. Recently, he participated in a center-wicket session with several fellow members of the NSW squad.
Reflecting on His Experience
Maddinson reflected on the challenges of his diagnosis, stating, “To know that I caught it probably as early as I could have, and it still spread into other parts of my body, that was scary.” He emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for any health concerns.
As he looks to the future, Maddinson’s fight against testicular cancer serves as an inspiration for many. His story reinforces the vital message about health awareness and the importance of regular check-ups.
