sportskeeda
WEST HAM icon Ludek Miklosko has revealed that he has been battling cancer for the last few years.
The ex-Hammers goalkeeper discovered his health issue three years ago after noticing a small lump on his hip.
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The 63-year-old initially showed positive responses to treatment, but later examinations revealed multiple undisclosed tumours, including one inoperable tumour in his stomach.
Miklosko underwent radiotherapy to try and reduce the tumour size, but it soon became clear that several other growths were also present.
As chemotherapy was presented as the final option, the doctors indicated that its effectiveness was uncertain.
Confronting this uncertainty, the former goalkeeper made the decision not to pursue treatment in order to maintain the quality of his remaining time.
In discussing his choice, he explained on West Ham’s official website: “I thought about this and had further conversations with my doctor in Ostrava.
“It was made clear to me that there were no assurances it would work.
“While it might slow the disease’s progression marginally, it wouldn’t completely stop it, and I would face additional complications.
“I decided against chemotherapy because I want to lead a normal life.”
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“I am surrounded by wonderful people, and I have my work and my football, which is everything I have known. I aim to continue that for as long as I can.”
Miklosko felt disheartened by the idea of enduring the demanding and draining process of chemotherapy, as it would require him to halt his life for an indefinite period.
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He expressed: “When I understood the implications of chemotherapy, I realized it would mean being away from my job and colleagues for about six months, not being able to travel, enduring nausea, and so on.
“So I decided, ‘No – I don’t want that. There’s no purpose in it. I want to enjoy my life.’
Miklosko is set to be at the Olympic Stadium this evening for the Hammers’ match against Premier League leaders Liverpool.
The club will honor their former goalkeeper ten minutes prior to kick-off.
Miklosko is excited to return to East London, stating: “It will hold a special significance for me.
“And, of course, the supporters. Even after all these years, they still remember me and sing my name, which is a wonderful feeling.
“I have a fond attachment to two football clubs, Banik Ostrava and West Ham United, both of which, strangely enough, are quite similar.
“The fans’ mentality is very alike as well. They are hardworking, loyal, and passionate individuals.
“Whenever I do an interview in the Czech Republic, I always make this comparison.
“West Ham United is my second family. I genuinely look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.”
