Comeback - Dakota Joshua Speaks For The First Time Since Life changing Cancer Diagnosis
Dakota Joshua's journey back to the Vancouver Canucks lineup is one filled with resilience and hope. After battling testicular cancer over the offseason, Joshua has been inching closer to a return, skating in a non-contact jersey during recent practices.
He's officially listed as day-to-day and, for the first time since his diagnosis, opened up about his road to recovery following practice at UBC.
Joshua shared how unprepared he felt when receiving the diagnosis. «It's hard to put into words,» he admitted. «You can't really be ready for something like that. The support from family, friends, the fans, and the whole organization made a tough time a lot easier. The initial part was rough, but it's behind me now, and I'm feeling good.»
His surgery in early September was a critical step in the process, but Joshua's focus is now on regaining full health. «People get surgery on arms or legs, and it's a similar thing-getting your body back,» he explained. «I don't just want to get through games. I want to make an impact and help this team win.»
Joshua has also kept an eye on the Canucks' early-season challenges. «It's normal for a team to work out kinks early on, especially with new faces,» he said. «I'm looking forward to helping solidify our identity and contributing to winning hockey.»
In a heartfelt statement before training camp, Joshua opened up about discovering the lump and undergoing surgery. He also stressed the importance of early detection and urged men to get checked regularly. «Getting checked quickly was the best approach,» he emphasized.
The Canucks, currently 4-2-3, continue their California road trip with stops in San Jose, Anaheim, and Los Angeles. Joshua's return will be a huge boost, both on and off the ice, as the Canucks aim to find their groove and stack up wins.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Dakota Joshua is the piece the Canucks are missing to get back to where they need to be playing? | ||
| Yes | 198 | 58.6 % |
| No, they need more additions | 140 | 41.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
