One of Penrith’s favourite sons has revealed that he has been battling cancer.
The latest twist in a drama-filled year for Lewis came after a lump was discovered on the back of his neck about six weeks ago.
He was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and after two operations, was given the all clear on Tuesday.
Lewis told Channel 10 that a four centimetre lump was discovered on his neck almost by accident, whilst undergoing treatment for an injury he suffered against the Tigers in round 19.
“It was pure luck – I hurt my neck against the Tigers… it just wasn’t getting any better that week and they ended up sending me for a CT scan,” Lewis said.
“I thought it wasn’t really happening to me… I had my wife and my mum with me and they took it pretty hard and they were upset.
“I think it was just the word cancer that was the scary part.”
Lewis is joining Cronulla next season, but told Channel 10 that he’s devastated he won’t be able to run out for the Panthers on Saturday.
“I’d love nothing more than to run out on Penrith Park on Saturday and play in front of the crowd that has been supporting me for 11 years,” he said.
