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Cancer-stricken John Hartson in critical condition
17 Jul 2009Testicular cancer-stricken former footballer John Hartson received a message of support from Tour de France star Lance Armstrong, who survived the disease himself.
Writing on his Twitter site, Armstrong wrote: "My thoughts go out to John Hartson. Livestrong, John!
"We're pulling for you! Folks, hold him in your thoughts and prayers please."
It was revealed earlier this week that 34-year-old Hartson was diagnosed with testicular cancer, which had spread to his brain.
He remains in a critical but stable condition after undergoing emergency neurosurgery to relieve pressure on his brain, a spokesman for Morriston hospital in Hartson's home town of Swansea said today.
Doctors at the hospital discovered the disease in his lungs as well.
He is now receiving round-the-clock care following the emergency procedure.
Hartson's family said in a statement on Wednesday: "His partner Sarah, mum, dad, three children, brother, two sisters and very close friends are all continuing to support John in any way we can."
The former Wales, Celtic, Arsenal and West Ham striker attended Swansea's Singleton Hospital on Friday with symptoms of testicular cancer. Tests were then carried out to establish a full picture of his diagnosis.
He was transferred to the larger Morriston hospital on Tuesday evening when his condition worsened.
Dr Gianfilippo Bertelli, a consultant medical oncologist, said earlier this week that a course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy would be started as soon as possible and that he could foresee many months of treatment.
The hospital said this morning Hartson's condition remained unchanged.
Reader views (4)
like mr staker was over the moon when john joined us from the gooners, and he proved what a great player he was for us hammers, it was a great shame that he left us , we certainly missed the big man.
john im praying you make a full recovery and my heart goes out to your familey, a very gutted west ham fan
- G Kiley, essex england, 22/07/2009 10:14
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Best of luck to him and his family.
- P Staker, London, 17/07/2009 16:10
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Good old fashioned no nonsense striker. Always thought he was good at Arsenal and was delighted when he signed for us at West Ham.
Stay strong SJH!
- Rob, London, 17/07/2009 13:20
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Unlike a certain player from Togo John was always a 100% wholehearted player when he was at the Arsenal (scoring 16 goals in 62 appearances) and left with all Gooner's thanks and appreciation. Hopefully the Bigman will get through this and make a full recovery like Lance Armstrong.
- Sean, Cork, Ireland, 17/07/2009 10:07
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