Brazilian football legend Pele will be forced to spend Christmas in hospital amid his battle with colon cancer.
The 82-year-old soccer icon, who remains one of the best footballers ever to have played for Brazil, was diagnosed with colon cancer back in September 2021.
In November this year, Pele was admitted to the hospital for a reevaluation only for doctors to find out that his cancer has worsened.
On Wednesday, Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo revealed that Pele suffers from renal and cardiac dysfunction and requires related care and treatment at the hospital.
“The patient remains hospitalized in a common room, under the necessary care of the medical team,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the footballer’s daughter, Kely Nascimento, spoke out and thanked her father’s supporters for comfort and good wishes.
“Your love for him, your stories and your prayers are a HUGE comfort because we know we are not alone,” she said.
“Let’s turn this room into a Sambadrome (just kidding), let’s even make caipirinhas (not kidding!!).”
The sad news comes shortly after Pele was said to be doing better following a year of treatment.
“The patient continues to show improvement in the clinical status, in particular the respiratory infection. He remains in a regular room, is conscious and with stable vital signs,” his medical team previously said.
The former athlete’s daughters, Flavia and Kely, also dismissed claims that their father was on the verge of death saying he was still watching the 2022 World Cup and supporting the Brazilian team.
Pele himself also congratulated the Brazilian team and its champion Neymar despite their defeat against Croatia in the quarter-finals.
“I saw you grow, I cheered for you every day and I can finally congratulate you for reaching my number of goals with Brazil,” he said in a lengthy statement.
“We both know that this is more than a figure. Our biggest duty as athletes is to inspire. Inspire our teammates of today, the next generations and, above all, everyone who loves our sport.”
He added: “Unfortunately, the day is not the happiest for us, but you will always be the source of inspiration that many aspire to become.”
What are your thoughts on this news? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to SHARE this post with your family and friends. For more news and stories, follow us on Facebook!
Recommended Video For You!
Loving Grandson Visits His Grandpa in Hospital Before Prom