Jordan Henderson's Dad Kept Cancer Battle Secret From Son

Brian Henderson, father of Liverpool star Jordan, was diagnosed with cancer before Christmas but held off on telling his family. Both he and his wife Donna withheld the devastating news from the England international until earlier this year as they were fearful it would affect his performances. The 59-year-old finally broke the news to his son as his live-saving surgery date drew nearer. He also spoke with Liverpool boss, Brendan Rodgers about his ordeal. Henderson had radiotherapy and surgery to remove lymph nodes on his neck and a tumour from his tongue. After successful treatment, Brian opened up about his experiences.

I said to Jordan that the best thing he could do for me when he got back to playing was try to get man of the match in every game. He got it in four of the next five he played. People didn’t realise the pressure he was under. I was so proud of him. I went to speak to Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool, who was very understanding. He gave Jordan time off, and the people at Liverpool were amazing.

Brian was unable to travel to Brazil to see Jordan represent England in the World Cup because of the condition but he spoke to him daily.

Jordan was really looking forward to the tournament and was buzzing about it. That helped me through, I knew it could change his life.

Hat tip: Mirror