Cancer relapse forces NHL prospect to postpone his career

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Mike Armenti
August 23, 2023 (11:01)

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In the wake of the tragic loss of Maple Leafs prospect Rodion Amirov last week, following a battle with brain cancer, another prospect is taking some time away from the game to focus on his health after it was announced that he's battling leukemia for the second time.

Will Francis, taken 163rd overall in 2019 by the Anaheim Ducks, has revealed his cancer is back in a recent statement through UMD Sports Department.

"I have some unfortunate news to share. Earlier this month, during a routine post-recovery check-up, a blood test revealed a relapse, showing my cancer had returned." - Will Francis on his ongoing fight with leukemia

Francis went on to say that it was surprising, as he had never felt better and there were no symptoms. He said he's disappointed in the news, but vows he'll be back at University and with his hockey team by January after getting treatment in Minnesota's Twin Cities.

Francis endured two years of treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, which included taking anywhere from three to 25 pills a day, and going through intense radiation treatment. Following those treatments, Francis was declared cancer free and had attended the Ducks' training camp the last two years.

This is some very unfortunate news and the hockey world is behind you, Will. We're wishing you all the best in this next round of treatment and will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. F**k cancer.