Rest in Peace Chris Sanderson

Chris Sanderson’s nearly 4 year battle with brain cancer ended today, sadly.  Sanderson passed away at 2 AM Today, (Thursday, 6/28) “surrounded by family.”  Sanderson was a professional lacrosse player playing in the National Lacrosse League in 1999, and 2001-2003.  Before turning pro, he played for the University of Virginia, making the NCAA tournament all four years.  He will be known, most, however, for his contributions to the Canadian National Team, including leading the team to a silver in 2010, over a year after his diagnosis of a grade IV Malignant tumor in December 2008.  In addition to playing, Sanderson was an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Wings from 2004 to 2011.  Sanderson is survived by his wife, Brogann, as well as his two children, Stevie and Clementine.

Chris Sanderson’s Condition Deteriorating

As some of you may know, former University of Virginia, NLL, and Team Canada goalie Chris Sanderson has been fighting over a three year battle with brain cancer.  He even won the silver medal at the 2010 World Championships, despite having been diagnosed in December of 2008 with a grade IV glioma, malignant brain tumor.  Yesterday, (June 25) his wife Brogann posted on his Caringbridge site that “Hospice is arranged and we are focusing on comfort as we do everything we can to help Chris make this transition as peacefully as possible.  If he develops pain or respiratory issues that we are unable to control at home, he will have to go to a hospice facility,” as well as “It is impossible to predict how long Chris has to live, but I can tell you that he is deteriorating quickly and, as of yesterday, refusing all food, water, and medication.  To me, it seems like we are at the point where his organs are still functioning but his brain is shutting down.  I do not know exactly what Chris is thinking or feeling, but it is pretty clear that he has made the decision to end this battle on his terms, regardless of suffering.  He is still conscious but minimally responsive, and I just pray that feels little pain and so much love.”  Sanderson was not only a standout in the NLL, but also a coach, with his last job as an assistant with the Philadelphia Wings.  Sanderson is currently 38, residing in New Jersey, with two kids, age 4 and 6.