NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade recently shared a deeply personal and shocking revelation on his podcast, “The Why with Dwyane Wade.” Wade disclosed that he had been diagnosed with kidney cancer and underwent surgery to remove 40% of his right kidney in December of 2023.
Wade revealed that he had been experiencing health issues, including urinary problems and stomach cramps, but had been putting off a physical examination. Inspired by his father’s battle with prostate cancer, Wade finally decided to see a doctor, which led to the discovery of a tumor on his kidney. Given the potential severity of the diagnosis, Wade opted for surgery to remove the tumor before it could spread.
“I’m asking these questions because now, my father has [gone] through something… it’s possible that I may go through it,” Wade said. “They were able to see something that was on my kidney, on my right kidney when I went in. Didn’t go in for my kidney. And so what I had on my kidney was a cyst, a tumor. But, it was not nothing that could be biopsied… unless they went in and surgically removed it.”
#DwyaneWade says he had to have nearly half of one his kidneys removed from his body in order to rid himself of a cancerous mass.
Full story HERE ➡: https://t.co/mgNAHUSwf9
📽️: The Why with Dwayne Wade pic.twitter.com/JmmbWsjJX2
— TMZ (@TMZ) January 30, 2025
The surgery was successful, but it was a challenging time for Wade and his family. He described the experience as one of the weakest moments of his life, as he had to confront his vulnerability and rely on his loved ones for support. Wade’s wife, Gabrielle Union, and his children were by his side throughout the process, providing him with the strength he needed to recover.
In sharing his story, Wade emphasized the importance of family and the support system that helped him through his illness. He expressed gratitude for the love and care he received from his family and friends, acknowledging that their presence made a significant difference in his recovery.
Despite the challenges he faced, Wade remains optimistic and continues to be an advocate for health and wellness. His openness about his diagnosis and surgery serves as a reminder of the importance of regular health check-ups and the need to prioritize one’s well-being.
