South African forward reveals that he is fighting cancer
Newcastle Falcons' Guy Pepper (left) and Exeter Chiefs' Aidon Davis in action during the Gallagher Premiership match at Kingston Park Stadium, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Exeter Chiefs forward Aidon Davis is currently undergoing treatment in his fight against cancer, the Premiership club has confirmed.
The back-rower had already informed his teammates, coaches, and Exeter Chiefs staff but has now announced the news publicly.
Staying positive
The South African remains extremely positive and enthuses that he will return to the pitch when he is healthy enough to do so, but he will be taking a break from the game over the next few months.
“I’ve recently received the news that I’ve been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma,” Davis said in a statement released by the club.
“While still feeling perfectly fit and healthy, I will have to go through chemotherapy and won’t be fit for selection for the next few months. I will continue training as treatment allows and be there for the team, in any way possible.”
“Myself and the doctors are very positive about the treatment and the results it will bring. I want to thank my wife for being by my side every step of the way, and my family and friends – especially my Chiefs family, the players, coaching staff, medical staff and everyone in the organisation for being there for me, supporting me and being so understanding.
“I’ll be back very soon, better and healthier than ever.”
Exeter supporting Davis
Director of Rugby Rob Baxter explained that the club will be there to support Davids.
“Obviously, this is a tough time for Aidon and his family, but fortunately, Aidon was smart enough to get his initial concerns checked with the club’s medical staff, which resulted in a swift diagnosis and, therefore, early and immediate treatment,” he said.
“We at the Chiefs are all right behind him in his fight to get 100% well again and I know Aidon is desperate to continue getting into the club and training and partaking in club activities whenever he can.”
“He is an incredibly strong and popular character and I know all our supporters will join myself, the staff and players in supporting him wherever and whenever we can.”
READ MORE: RG Snyman’s move to Leinster was a ‘huge surprise’ for Munster boss