Alexis Ohanian, an entrepreneur and the spouse of renowned tennis player Serena Williams, recently disclosed on Instagram that he had surgery to remove part of his thyroid. This action, taken after several years of watching potentially harmful nodules, was a proactive measure to avert possible cancer.
Ohanian explained that he had been monitoring his thyroid nodules for the past four years as they increased in size. A recent biopsy indicated a significant risk of these nodules turning cancerous. In his emotional update, he remarked, “I wasn’t going to take a chance,” and shared an image of himself in a hospital gown displaying a neck scar.
The operation was successful, and Ohanian felt thankful for addressing the issue early on. He mentioned that the most challenging aspect following the surgery was the two-week restriction from weightlifting—a minor setback when considering the risks he sidestepped.
A Personal Link to Cancer
Ohanian’s urgent response was shaped by his own past with the illness. He shared, “My mom had breast cancer at my age (41) and ultimately succumbed to brain cancer a decade later. I despise cancer.” This personal history emphasized for him the critical nature of early detection, especially in his role as a father.
Men, Take Charge of Your Health
In a recent post, Ohanian urged men, especially fathers, to focus on their health. He stated, “Get checked out, especially if y’all are dads,” to stress the necessity of regular health examinations.
Alongside this message, Ohanian shared pictures of his two daughters, Olympia (6 years old) and Adira (1 year old), illustrating how his family inspires him to actively manage his health. With Thanksgiving approaching, he expressed his appreciation for his recovery and the health of his family.
This account from Ohanian highlights the significance of frequent medical check-ups and prompt health action. His open conversation serves as motivation for others to prioritize their health and value time with family.