Pelé Aug 3, 2013; Hempstead, NY, USA; New York Cosmos former player Pele is led by security through the crowd during a ceremony before a match against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at James M. Shuart Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

There is some very sad news out of Brazil as it’s reported that Brazilian soccer legend Pelé is no longer receiving chemotherapy for bowel cancer and has been moved to end-of-life palliative care.

According to the Brazilian news outlet Folha de S. Paulo, Pele’s treatment is now more for pain relief and shortness of breath. The King has been undergoing chemotherapy for bowel cancer since September 2021.

Pelé was admitted to the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in São Paulo this past Tuesday and the hospital revealed on Friday that the 82-year-old was being treated with antibiotics for a respiratory infection and while he was stable, would remain hospitalized while he continues treatment. Pelé’s daughter Kely Nascimento, said that the media was “overreacting” and that her father is regulating his medication while in the hospital. She noted that she is not “jumping on a flight to run there” and plans to see her dad on New Year’s Eve, indicating no emergency and things aren’t as dire as reported.

Pelé took to Instagram to show his appreciation to everyone for the positive messages and tribute to him at the FIFA World Cup.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pelé (@pele)

Pelé posted, “Friends, I am at the hospital making my monthly visit. It’s always nice to receive positive messages like this. Thanks to Qatar for this tribute, and to everyone who sends me good vibes!”

The entire soccer world is rallying behind Pelé, sending positive vibes and praying that The King pulls through.

[Folha de S. Paulo]

About Phillip Bupp

Producer/editor of the Awful Announcing Podcast and Short and to the Point. News editor for The Comeback and Awful Announcing. Highlight consultant for Major League Soccer as well as a freelance writer for hire. Opinions are my own but feel free to agree with them.

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