Rugby star shares decision to retire after being diagnosed with terminal cancer at 27
New Zealand rugby player Cameron Suafoa has sadly announced his retirement after being diagnosed with terminal cancer at just 27 years old. Cameron played as a blindside flanker for the Maori All Blacks and had to step away from rugby in April 2024, after first being diagnosed with sarcoma in November 2023.
Despite the tough diagnosis, Cameron showed incredible strength by returning to play for North Harbour in the National Provincial Championship just months after having a rare cancerous tumor removed from his back. His treatment also involved removing three ribs and shaving his spine.
Unfortunately, he recently received the heartbreaking news that the cancer has spread and is now terminal, leading him to decide to retire completely. In a heartfelt video shared on social media, Cameron said, “I wanted to update you all on my situation. I’ve decided to officially stop playing rugby. I was told my cancer has spread and is terminal now. I won’t be playing anymore, but I’m ready to face a different kind of battle — starting chemo soon.”
He also expressed how much the team means to him: “This team has a special place in my heart. I was born and raised in Auckland and was lucky to play for the Blues and be part of this club for a few years. I’ve loved every moment on and off the field here.”
Cameron had previously shared some details about his fight with cancer, revealing the major surgeries he’s had. “I had two back operations — the first in November last year to remove a tumor from my lower back, near my lat muscle, and some of the muscle was taken out as well,” he explained. “After that, I went through six weeks of radiation to stop the sarcoma from coming back.”
He continued, “About six weeks ago, I had more surgery where three ribs were removed, my spine was shaved, and steel rods and screws were put in to stabilize my back. Some metal parts replaced the ribs that were taken out because the tumor was growing between them. That operation lasted about nine hours to make sure everything was removed.”
Cameron’s courage and determination have been truly inspiring, and everyone is sending him their best wishes as he faces this next chapter.