The retired NBA point guard spoke about his surprise cancer diagnosis and life-saving kidney surgery.
NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade has publicly shared for the first time that he underwent surgery in 2023 to remove a tumor from his kidney, which was later confirmed to be cancerous.
Speaking on his podcast, The Why with Dwyane Wade, the three-time NBA champion explained that he had been experiencing stomach and urinary issues. After neglecting physical exams for several years, he finally decided to see a doctor.
A full-body scan revealed a cyst or tumor on his right kidney, prompting multiple doctors to recommend surgery.
Dwyane Wade Reveals He Had Surgery to Remove Cancerous Tumor on His Kidney in 2023
Wade underwent the procedure in December 2023, during which doctors removed 40% of his right kidney. It wasn’t until after the surgery that tests confirmed the tumor was cancerous. Reflecting on the experience, Wade expressed gratitude for taking action when he did. “Thank God that I did do the surgery,” he said.
He also opened up about the emotional toll it took on him and his family. “I think it was the first time my family, my dad, my kids, they saw me weak,” Wade admitted. “That moment was probably the weakest point I’ve ever felt in my life. … I was struggling, dog. Struggling. And one thing you never want to do as a man is you never want your family to see you as weak.”
Wade, who retired after the 2018-19 season, is a Miami Heat legend, holding franchise records in points, assists, steals, games played, and minutes. Over his 16-year NBA career—15 of those with the Heat—he won three championships and earned the 2006 Finals MVP.
His recent health scare serves as a reminder of the importance of regular check-ups, something Wade admits he had overlooked. Fortunately, his decision to seek medical attention led to early intervention, which may have saved his life.
