Brazilian news outlet Folha de Sao Paulo claims that soccer superstar Pelé is not responding to chemotherapy treatment. Because the harsh treatment is not working now, the doctors would have started palliative care on the Brazilian.
The former Brazil international has been dealing with intestinal cancer since September 2021.
The initial chemotherapy seemed to be doing its job; however, scans earlier in the year showed a new cancerous growth spreading to Pele’s liver and lungs.
Star has been receiving regular treatment.
Pelé, 82, has been hospitalized since November 29. He last posted on Instagram on Thursday about a Qatari tribute. Buildings lit up in Doha with the former player’s face along with a get well soon message.
“Friends, I’m at the hospital doing my monthly visit,” Pele said. “It’s always nice to receive positive messages like this. Thanks to Qatar for this tribute and to everyone who sends me good vibes!”
New strategy helps control pain
Palliative care is for patients dealing with life-threatening illnesses that do not respond to intense treatment.
According to the aforementioned report, Pelé will not be subjected to any more invasive surgeries. Instead, the new treatment will help ease any pain and help the former player feel more comfortable during his end-of-life care.
Players have taken to Twitter to express their support for the legend. Frenchman Kylian Mbappe and Rivaldinho, son of former Brazilian star Rivaldo, tweeted “Pray for the King” early Saturday morning.
Official reports suggested that Pelé previously went to the hospital due to a respiratory infection.
Antibiotic treatment reportedly helped the superstar. The initial news was that Pele responded to the medicine “with a general improvement in his state of health.” However, Pelé’s condition has worsened in recent days.
Pelé is widely considered the greatest soccer player of all time.
The striker collected three World Cup trophies with Brazil and was even voted FIFA Soccer Player of the Century.
Photo credit: IMAGO: Sportimage
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