Hartson now out of critical care

John Hartson was diagnosed with testicular cancer three weeks ago

Former Wales international footballer John Hartson who is fighting cancer has been transferred out of critical care, say his doctors.

The retired footballer, 34, has been critically ill at Morriston Hospital in Swansea since undergoing emergency surgery on his brain last month.

He was diagnosed with testicular cancer which had reached his brain and lungs.

He is now being treated at the city's Singleton Hospital and could begin chemotherapy this week.

Hartson played for Arsenal and Celtic during his career and was capped 51 times for Wales, before retiring from the game in February 2008.

Since the cancer diagnosis was made in July he has undergone two operations on his brain.

We are now focusing on helping John in the next stage of his treatment Statement from the footballer's family

The first was emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the second was a pre-planned neurosurgical drainage procedure.

But last week the Abertawe Bro Morgannwg (ABM) NHS trust which is caring for him reported a gradual improvement in the star's condition.

He was transferred from Morriston into the care of Singleton's cancer team on Sunday evening, the NHS trust confirmed in a statement.

"If progress continues, we are planning to begin his chemotherapy treatment this week," the statement added.

Lance Armstrong

The father-of-three's family, making their own statement, thanked all the staff at Morriston "for their help and support" as well as the ambulance staff who transferred the former footballer.

"We are now focusing on helping John in the next stage of his treatment," they said.

After an illustrious career on the pitch, Hartson was developing a new career as a television pundit when he became ill.

Since the news of his illness has emerged, the hospital has been inundated with messages of support.

Among them was one from American cyclist Lance Armstrong, who has himself fought testicular cancer.

He has also received backing from UK troops fighting in Afghanistan, and US marines, his family have revealed.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version