There’s something unique about the Rogers Charity Classic this week: the participation of senior pro, Steve Blake from Calgary. After being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer, he received an exemption to play at Canyon Meadows Golf & Country Club in May 2024. But what’s the latest update? Has he fully recovered?

Sadly, the answer is no, as the disease is inoperable. The golfer had a nagging cough for a while, and the doctors initially suspected it to be pneumonia. However, back in September 2023, while he was getting ready for a certain tournament, his condition got worse. The 56-year-old wasted no time and immediately headed for the check-up.

Merely sixteen hours later, Blake and his family received the devastating news that he had been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. His oncologist gave him a prognosis of 12 to 24 months. Upon learning the news, Blake said, “It’s one of those things that’s a life-changer for not only you but your family and your community,” as revealed on the Global News website.

He grabbed the club again about five months after completing his chemotherapy and is now receiving a weekly round of targeted treatments. After standing up again, Blake himself wrote a letter to the Rogers Charity Classic and asked for an exemption. On May 27th, his 56th birthday, he received the present as an exemption from the tournament and made his second appearance.

Exempting him, Charity Classic executive director Sean Van Kesteren said, “Giving one of Calgary’s top senior golfers, who needs the support of our entire community right now, the opportunity to play in front of his friends and family is not only extremely rewarding but also supports this mission.” Despite the struggle, what drives him to play again?

The motivation behind Blake’s decision to play the Rogers Charity Classic

Blake qualified for the U.S. Senior Open in San Diego back in 2018 and has experience playing in the major. Coming to 2024, he is now back on professional greens after making some adjustments to his swings.

Despite the setbacks, the pro says, “Golf is such a huge part of my life… I got to keep playing; I got to find a way. Being able to look forward to something like this does so much for me, you know, mentally, physically, everything.” And he wants to play whenever he can while going through the treatment. Blake also wants to cherish everything he has right now and is looking forward to the Rogers Charity Classic.

“You may be handed a death sentence, but that doesn’t mean life is over. You’ve still got a lot to give, so get out there and give something. I have something like this tournament coming up to look forward to, and that makes me feel more alive,” said the 56-year-old after receiving the exemption as revealed on the CTV website. After going through seven rounds of chemotherapy, the golfer’s wife, Kelly, has high hopes and continues to pray.

What are your thoughts on Steve Blake’s battle with lung cancer? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!