Overview

• Sanders said a routine scan for blood-clotting issues in April 2025 revealed an aggressive, high-risk non–muscle invasive bladder cancer.
• Presented with 36 weeks of chemotherapy or bladder removal, he chose surgery nine days after diagnosis and had a new bladder constructed from intestinal tissue.
• He described the initial attempt to urinate after surgery as the “most excruciating pain” of his life and said he is still managing nighttime incontinence.
• University of Colorado urologic oncologist Dr. Janet Kukreja has declared him cancer-free, and he has returned to coaching with game-day accommodations for urinary needs.
• He disclosed drafting a will during the scare and said he is speaking out to reduce stigma and encourage men to seek routine medical care.