Jimmy Valvano was diagnosed with metastatic adenocarcinoma. This glandular cancer originated from an unknown primary site and spread to his bones, including his spine, back, neck, legs, and hips.
Diagnosis and Progression
Valvano first noticed symptoms as back pain during the 1992 Final Four,
leading to his June 1992 diagnosis at age 46. Despite aggressive chemotherapy
and experimental treatments, the cancer advanced rapidly, causing severe pain.
Death and Legacy
He passed away on April 28, 1993, at Duke University Medical Center, nearly a
year after diagnosis. Valvano founded the V Foundation for Cancer Research
during his final months, inspired by his famous ESPY speech urging
perseverance.
