Italian basketball player Achille Polonara is feeling hopeful as he prepares for a bone marrow transplant after a compatible donor was found. In a recent interview, he shared an update on his health, his upcoming treatment, and his unwavering determination to return to the court.
After overcoming testicular cancer last season, Polonara was diagnosed with myeloid leukemia in June. While the news was incredibly difficult, finding a donor has brought a new sense of optimism. His journey highlights his resilience and his focus on the future.
🙏 A Difficult Journey and Newfound Hope
Achille Polonara spoke openly about the challenges he has faced. He admitted that after his diagnosis, there were very tough moments where he felt overwhelmed. However, thinking about his wife and children gave him the strength to keep fighting. The good news came when a compatible bone marrow donor, an American girl, was found. Polonara called himself “lucky,” and this development has been a major source of encouragement for him and his family.
👨👩👧👦 The Power of Support
Throughout this difficult period, Polonara has been surrounded by a strong support system. He mentioned receiving countless messages and phone calls from people within the basketball world and beyond, which helped him maintain a positive outlook. Above all, he credited his wife and children for giving him the motivation to look ahead with hope. He recently spent some quality time with his children before preparing to check into the hospital for his treatment.
🏥 Looking Ahead to Treatment and Recovery
Polonara shared the next steps in his medical plan. He is scheduled to be admitted to the hospital for tests, followed by a cycle of chemotherapy that will last five to six days. The bone marrow transplant is expected to take place around September 23-24. He is approaching this next phase with a positive mindset, focused on a successful recovery.
🏀 A New Chapter and an Unchanged Dream
While focusing on his health, Polonara also clarified his professional future. He parted ways with his former team, Virtus Bologna, but explained that this was not related to his illness. He stated that he was not part of the team’s plans for the upcoming season anyway and would not have wanted to be re-signed out of sympathy. His dream of playing basketball remains as strong as ever. He has an agreement with his former club, Sassari, and his main goal is to get medically cleared to return to the sport he loves.
