Former Everton and Republic of Ireland midfielder Kevin Sheedy has been given the all-clear by doctors after undergoing surgery following his recent diagnosis with bowel cancer
Last Updated: September 26, 2012 7:42pm
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Former Everton midfielder Kevin Sheedy has thanked everyone for their support after being given the all-clear by doctors after undergoing surgery following his recent diagnosis with bowel cancer.
The 52-year-old revealed his illness last month, but an early diagnosis meant it was operable and Sheedy is now recovering at home, although he will still require regular checks.
Sheedy, who works as a coach of the Everton U18 team, said: "I would like to say a massive thank you to everybody who sent me messages of support, which I got from all over the world.
"It was very touching and really helped me to deal with my situation knowing that so many people were rooting for me."
Sheedy, who scored for the Republic of Ireland against England at the 1990 World Cup, has encouraged anyone who thinks they may have a similar illness to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
"I would strongly urge anybody who has concerns to go immediately to their GP," he said.
"My life has been saved through early detection and I am told that over 90% who are diagnosed at the earliest stage are successfully treated.
"Don't be embarrassed to go otherwise you could die of that embarrassment."
