Dwyane Wade, the Miami Heat legend and NBA Hall of Famer, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in December 2023, just two years after experiencing early symptoms. At 40, Wade had gone for a check-up after learning his father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. During his visit, he mentioned experiencing slow urine flow, stomach cramps, and occasional pain, but he didn’t initially think much of it. After an MRI, doctors discovered a lesion on his kidney, which turned out to be cancerous. Wade was advised to undergo surgery to remove it before it could potentially spread to his lungs and brain.

Reflecting on his diagnosis, Wade shared that it gave him a new perspective on life. The experience prompted him to reconsider his priorities and focus on his future. He spent time journaling and thinking about what was truly important. Fortunately, the cancer was caught early, as the lesion was only 3 centimeters in size. Wade expressed gratitude for the early detection and acknowledged how this health scare has shaped his outlook on the next phase of his life.