Chris Mortensen, a veteran ESPN NFL reporter, has taken a leave of absence to battle cancer.
In a joint statement released by the sports network on Friday, Mortensen confirmed that he was diagnosed with Stage IV throat cancer "more than a week ago," and will take the leave in order to focus on the fight he has ahead of him.
"My focus shifted significantly to gathering information about the specifics of this cancer," Mortensen said in the statement. "The initial diagnosis was confirmed Friday and there is another test remaining that will determine the best possible treatment plan that will commence in the very immediate future.
"Consequently, with the support and encouragement from ESPN president John Skipper and many others at ESPN, I am temporarily stepping away from my normal NFL coverage duties to better engage this opportunity to fight the good fight that is projected to affect almost 1.7 million Americans with new cases in 2016."
Although Mortensen faces a difficult battle, he will bravely begin the fight with the support of those closed to him in his professional and personal lives.
"I have many inspirational examples of men, women and children who have faced this very fight," Mortensen said. "We all know somebody, right? I also have the love and prayers of my wife Micki, my family, my friends, colleagues and, most of all, my faith that serve as sources of tremendous strength. I have a peace about this and look forward to the battle."
Mortensen, who joined ESPN in 1991, is an award-winning journalist and considered a well-respected NFL reporter.
"Our thoughts are with Chris and his family as he faces this challenge," ESPN President John Skipper said. "He is an extremely respected colleague, who has the complete support of his entire ESPN family. We wish him strength and hope in the battle ahead and look forward to his return whenever he chooses."
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