On a recent podcast episode, Dwyane Wade shared details of the ‘weakest’ moment of his life. It was unlike any frustrating loss he faced in his glittering NBA career. This was a fight for life. At the age of 41, a routine check-up revealed Wade had a cancerous tumor present in his kidney. The Flash had surgery and recently recalled his mindset during this time.

“They took 40 percent of my kidney to make sure they can get all the cancer off it,” D-Wade revealed on his podcast. In the immediate aftermath, his family saw him at his weakest point. It was a sight the three-time NBA champion didn’t want his loved ones to see. However, little did he know, in those moments, that their unity was what would give him strength.

“One thing you never want to do as a man is [for] your family to see you weak. It’s tough… In that process of my weakness, I found strength in my family, in my friends, in my group,” Wade shared a clip of the same on his Instagram.

Aside from several of his family members relaying their support once again, the Miami Heat also reacted to his experience. The Heat commented a prayer emoji on Wade’s post. As one of the most decorated stars in the history of the franchise, it didn’t come as a surprise. The Heat Nation enamored Dwyane Wade.

And they weren’t the only ones.

The NBA community offers strength to Dwyane Wade

Like most, the NBA world and the millions of Dwyane Wade fans weren’t aware of his medical struggles. As he said in the post “Stage 1 cancer… those words hit hard”. Likewise, his followers were equally in shock with his confession. “Keep sharing your story and helping others. Gods got you!” a fan wrote sharing their support.

That is exactly what The Flash needed in these times. He revealed the surgery required the doctors to remove 40% of his kidney. It was “a scary thing to face” for Wade. But more than anything, his fans were thankful that the doctors were able to remove the entire tumor present. “I’m glad you came out ok, we love you dwade” one such comment read.

The greater thought though was his bravery. For years, Dwyane Wade delayed his annual checkups. However, once he began noticing some discomfort and abnormalities, the Heat legend instantly confronted his doctors. His timely decision may have helped identify the tumor early, playing a huge role in a successful surgery.

One fan even learned from Wade commenting “I got scanned because of you! Let 25’ be a year for health”. In addition, even the American Cancer Society commended Dwyane Wade for “highlighting and importance of prioritizing health”. They mentioned such stories have the power to “inspire strength and courage, especially for those currently facing cancer”.

As it stands, Dwyane Wade is currently out of any danger and has probably helped thousands be more mindful of their health. His story sends a radiating message that everyone can learn and grow from.