Orlando Pride midfielder Luana has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the club announced on Monday, with the Brazil international set to begin chemotherapy treatment immediately.
“As a professional athlete I have faced many challenges, on and off the field,” Luana said in a statement on the club website.
“I have always fought with courage and determination, and this time will be no different. I really appreciate the support of my family and friends who have strengthened me in this moment. I also want to thank Brazil’s National Team and Orlando Pride for their unconditional support. I kindly ask that my privacy be respected at this time.”
Hodgkin’s lymphoma, formerly known as Hodgkin’s disease, is a form of cancer that begins in the white blood cells and affects the lymphatic system, part of the body’s immune system. It is the less common of two general types of lymphoma, with the more common category being non-Hodgkin’s.
Orlando Pride’s general manager Haley Carter added: “On behalf of our club, players, and the entire Orlando community, I want to extend our unwavering commitment to Luana as she begins her treatment.
“We are thankful to have some of the best medical resources available through our partners at Orlando Health, and we are prepared to do all we can to care for Luana in this moment.
“We fight our battles together, on and off the field, and the Orlando Pride athletes and staff will be side-by-side with Luana and unified in our support of her throughout this process.”
Luana joined Orlando from Corinthians ahead of the 2024 NWSL season, and had appeared in three games so far this term.