Hawthorn forward Jarryd Roughead has announced he intends to return to the AFL after being diagnosed with stage four melanoma, discovered during a routine scan. The 29-year-old revealed four spots were found on his lung, requiring 12 months of immune therapy injections starting next week.
Roughead, a four-time premiership player, remains optimistic about his playing future. 'You can come to my first game back,' he said on Tuesday. 'I’m 29 and I still have two and a half years on a deal.' The diagnosis came as a shock two weeks ago, but Roughead is determined to fight. 'The sooner we start, the sooner I can beat it. It’s head down and bum up,' he stated.
Hawthorn club doctor Michael Makdissi emphasized that football is secondary as Roughead begins treatment. 'It’s a serious problem, but we’re optimistic of the outcome,' Makdissi said. He noted that new immune therapies have changed the landscape for melanoma treatment, with fewer side effects. The regimen involves four treatments three weeks apart, then one every two weeks.
Roughead’s frustration is compounded by feeling fine and having no cancer symptoms, as he was recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him for the first 10 rounds. He had hoped to play this week but understands the need for treatment. 'I’m still going to be out here and I’m still going on trips. I’m the same old me, just unfortunately not able to play,' he said.
Hawthorn football operations manager Chris Fagan praised the support from fans and the football community, asking for privacy for Roughead and his wife Sarah during his cancer battle.
