Rivera Never Missed a Game During His Cancer Treatment
The Claim
A coach never missed a game during his cancer treatment.
News posted on
Emerging story
Many on social media are talking about the Washington Football Team after they unexpectedly beat the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers. Some were also discussing hardships the Washington team has overcome, including the head coach surviving cancer without missing a game.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar’s investigation found the claims to be true. According to ESPN.com, Washington coach Ron Rivera had been diagnosed with cancer in August 2020. A newly hired Rivera was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma located in a lymph node. Rivera said he found a lump on his neck in early July, and when it didn't go away after a couple of weeks, he visited a doctor. 
During Rivera’s seven weeks of treatments that ended Oct. 26, including three rounds of chemotherapy and proton therapy five days a week, he sat out three practices but never missed a game according to ESPN.com. "I was amazed. Usually, our patients, halfway in, stop working," said his doctor Dr. John Deeken. "Most of our patients toward the end of their treatment are very close to needing to be hospitalized because there are so many complications." While Rivera did not miss any games, the treatment still took a toll. Enduring treatments five days a week, Rivera lost 36 pounds.
After his last cancer treatment, Ron Rivera rang the bell. The Washington Football Team has a record of 5-7 and is 2nd in NFC East.
During his seven weeks of cancer treatment, Coach Rivera never missed a football game.
