Home / Health / AFL Star's Cancer Battle: A Shocking Discovery
AFL Star's Cancer Battle: A Shocking Discovery
11 Apr
Summary
- Sam Docherty discovered a lump during his career peak, leading to a stage two cancer diagnosis.
- He underwent chemotherapy for a year after cancer spread throughout his body.
- Docherty returned to AFL action months after treatment, having one of his best seasons.
Sam Docherty, a co-captain for Carlton, made a startling discovery in late 2020: a lump above his testicle while at the height of his AFL career. What followed was a swift diagnosis of stage two testicular cancer. Despite undergoing surgery, the cancer had already spread to other parts of his body within a year.
This progression necessitated four intensive, five-day rounds of chemotherapy, a grueling experience Docherty described as feeling constantly hungover. Against formidable odds, he made a triumphant return to AFL fields in April 2021, months after concluding his final chemotherapy session in November 2021.
Docherty's comeback season proved to be one of the most successful of his decorated career. He has since retired from AFL after 184 games and continues to advocate for cancer awareness, serving on the board of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation. April is designated as testicular cancer awareness month, encouraging young men to perform regular self-checks.
