Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher Kody Funderburk’s wife, Alicia, was diagnosed with cancer while she was pregnant with their first child. This revelation came as a shock to the baseball community, given the physical demands of the sport and the emotional toll of pregnancy.
Kody Funderburk’s Public Support
In a series of social media posts shared on Saturday, April 25, via X (formerly Twitter), the Minnesota Twins, of which Kody recently rejoined after taking paternity leave for the April 20 birth of daughter Murphy Jo, detailed Alicia’s health journey. The posts began with a photo of Kody, 29, standing beside a pregnant Alicia with a scarf wrapped around her head. A second post shared another snap of pregnant Alicia, this time seated in a hospital chair.
“Fundy is back from the Paternity List but we want to take a moment to share more of his and his wife’s story,” the posts began. “While pregnant, Alicia, Kody’s wife, was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. After ongoing chemotherapy treatments, doctors are hopeful that she’ll make a full recovery.”
Understanding Hodgkin Lymphoma
According to the Mayo Clinic, Hodgkin lymphoma “is cancer that affects the lymphatic system” and is “highly treatable and often curable,” with treatments including “chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplant … and clinical trials.”
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The disease can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly affects the lymph nodes.
The diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma in Alicia during her pregnancy was a significant challenge. However, the couple has been supported by the medical community and the baseball community, which has rallied around them.
The Impact on the Funderburk Family
The Funderburk family’s journey has been a testament to resilience and strength. Alicia shared her diagnosis via her Instagram account on April 15, just five days prior to Murphy’s arrival. “A little photo recap and life update from the last few months,” she wrote, sharing a photo of herself and Kody with their newborn daughter.
Kody’s return to the Minnesota Twins after taking paternity leave has been met with warmth and support. The team’s announcement of his return was accompanied by a message of support for Alicia and the family. “We are all rooting for Alicia and Murphy Jo as they navigate this challenging time,” the team said in a statement.
FAQ
- What is Hodgkin lymphoma? Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system.
- How is Hodgkin lymphoma treated? Hodgkin lymphoma is treated with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and clinical trials.
- What is the prognosis for Hodgkin lymphoma? Hodgkin lymphoma is highly treatable and often curable, with a five-year relative survival rate of about 89%.
- How has the baseball community responded to Alicia’s diagnosis? The baseball community has rallied around the Funderburk family, offering support and encouragement as they navigate this challenging time.
The Funderburk family’s story is a reminder of the importance of resilience and the power of community support. As Alicia and Kody continue their journey, they are supported by their loved ones and the broader community, which has come together to offer its support and encouragement.
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