Jim Johnson Battling Cancer
Eagles defensive coordinator has tumor in his back
Updated 7:53 PM EST, Thu, Jan 29, 2009
The Philadelphia Eagles have announced that one of their coaches is battling cancer.
Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson coached the final two playoff games from the press box. A back problem forced him away from the field, and caused him to use a motorized scooter at the practice fields and stadium.
The Eagles announced Thursday that a tumor is the cause of that back pain.
Eagles trainer Rick Burkholder said a bone tumor developed in the same area where Johnson had skin cancer eight years ago.
In 2001, he underwent melanoma surgery, but had been cancer free since then.
Johnson has already begun radiation treatment at Bryn Mawr Hospital.
Burkholder said the cancer has not spread to the brain or spinal fluid, but there are other areas in the body that are affected by the cancer.
Eagles staff will coach the NFC team in the Pro Bowl next week in Hawaii, but Johnson will not make the trip.
Johnson, who has been with the team for 10 years, says he intends to keep on coaching.
First Published: Jan 29, 2009 6:23 PM EST
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