Former Buffalo Bills QB Jim Kelly Says His Cancer Has Returned: ‘I Know That God Is With Me’

NFL legend and Hall of Famer was first diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013

Jim Kelly
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NFL legend and former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly announced on Thursday that his oral cancer has returned.

“As our family has faced many trials and triumphs throughout the years, you have blessed us with your prayers. We are asking for those prayers once again,” Kelly said in a statement.

“The oral cancer we hoped would be gone forever has returned. Although I was shocked and deeply saddened to receive this news, I know that God is with me. I continuously talk about the four F’s. Faith, Family, Friends and Fans. With all of you by my side, we will fight and win this battle together. Staying ‘Kelly Tough’ and trusting God will carry us through this difficult time,” he added.

Kelly, 58, was first diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in his upper jaw in 2013. He went on to have surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

His fight launched the “Kelly Tough” campaign and the book “Kelly Tough: Live Courageously by Faith Paperback” by Erin Kelly and Jill Kelly.

The Hall of Famer is a five-time Pro Bowler and had his No. 12 jersey retired by the Buffalo Bills after leading the team to four AFC championships in his 11 seasons with the franchise. He spent his entire NFL season with Buffalo before retiring in 1996.

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