Before the 2024 season began, the Chicago Cubs started the year with some exciting news at their annual convention. The announcement was that legendary second baseman and Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg would be honored and immortalized outside Wrigley Field with a statue. Sandberg said he was caught off guard by the honor. However, the entire Cubs community was even more caught off guard by an announcement just a week later.
On Instagram, Ryne Sandberg announced he was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer and would begin his treatment immediately. His message preached positivity and motivation to fight the disease that was trying to take over his body. Sandberg continued to be very public and open about his treatment and his journey with cancer via social media posts.
The spring was different for Sandberg and the Cubs. Ryno was a staple at spring training in Mesa, Arizona. He loved the opportunity to meet and interact with every player on the Cubs and serve as a resource as a new season approached. Unfortunately, he could not make the trip and participate in camp due to his condition.
Sandberg did make it to Opening Day to throw out the ceremonial first pitch of the 2024 season. On the days he felt well enough, he’d still make it to Wrigley and interact with Cubs fans. He also gave a wonderful message on the day of his statue unveiling in June. Still, through all this, he was continuing his treatment.
On Thursday, the Cubs partnered with 670 the Score, Brain Up, and Stand Up to Cancer for a 24-hour radiothon to raise money for cancer research. Sandberg came on for a segment and shared some incredible news with us all.
Cubs Legend Ryne Sandberg Announces He Is Cancer-Free
After months of chemotherapy and radiation treatment, Ryne Sandberg was able to share with the public that he is officially cancer-free. Before his radio appearance Thursday morning, Sandberg had an appointment at Northwestern, where his doctor told him there were no signs of cancer in his system. Ryno rang the bell in ceremony on his way out of his final appointment to pronounce to everyone he had beat cancer.
Sandberg will continue to have regular check-ups to make sure no signs of the disease return to his system. While Ryno is officially able to call himself a survivor, millions of others continue to fight this disease that has taken so many loved ones away across the globe. The Cubs are doing what they can to combat cancer this weekend.
On Saturday, Ryne Sandberg will be one of many Cubs for a Cure participants. Before the game, the Cubs will host events and activities in Gallagher Way to raise money for cancer research. During the game, players will wear custom cleats that will be auctioned off, with all proceeds being donated. The goal is to raise one million dollars to be donated to research new ways to fight and defeat cancer.
You can get involved by attending Saturday’s game and activities or by donating online here.
Absolutely great news for my personal all time favorite cub!!! Great to hear Ryno!!
Fucking LOVE THIS! God Bless, Ryno. Keep on pushin’.