Stynes facing new battle as brain tumours revealed

Australian Rules legend Jim Stynes has begun a new stage of his cancer treatment after revealing the presence of three brain tumours recently.

The news is a further blow to the father-of-two who disclosed his cancer diagnosis back in July after a growth on his back was identified as cancerous. The cancer had also spread to other organs, he told a press conference at the time.

Since then he has undergone a number of operations. The 43-year-old has been keeping his many friends and supporters updated via the social networking site, Twitter.

On September 30, he revealed his latest challenge on the road to recovery with characteristic positivity.

“Small bump on recover,little tumour on brain,will know soon.Good news PETscan all clean on rest body.great support everyone xox.”

A day later, he revealed more: “Pushed it too far on cycle.In hospital.Feeling better.3 tumours in brain.Fight cont.Treatm.,looks pos+.Specialist 2morrow.Big24hrs!Thx2all”.

Then, on Sunday, October 3 he said that he would be undergoing radiation treatment.

“Nex step begins tues, 2weeks radiation,hair will have to go.”

In typical style, Stynes has sought to use his plight to help others and he has the support of his friend, comedian Jimeoin.

“Jimeoin is happy 2shave 2,get on board lets help some kids,brighten a few smiles,” he tweeted.

Despite the seriousness of his illness, Stynes remains very positive and has encouraged the media to do the same.

In a separate tweet, he wrote: “Reminder 4 media, much rather happy photos when media using shots.”

The Dubliner did not allow his illness to keep him away from the Brownlow Medal presentation. He won the game’s highest individual honour back in 1991.

 becoming the first foreign-born player to do so.

He still holds the record for the most consecutive AFL games and a room is named after him at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

By Billy Cantwell

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