Former England Batter Faces Tough Health Battle
Former England and Kent cricketer Susie Wilson-Rowe has been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer, a rare and aggressive form of the disease. The 38-year-old revealed that she is battling a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with the Exon 20 mutation, which has already spread to her spine and lymph nodes.
Wilson-Rowe, who represented England in 23 T20 internationals, shared her diagnosis earlier this year while she was on maternity leave following the birth of her son, Zach. She had been experiencing persistent pain in her ribs and scapula area for months, which initially was thought to be a muscle strain.
Sharing Her Story to Raise Awareness
In a heartfelt statement released through her former county club, Wilson-Rowe said her goal in sharing her diagnosis is to encourage early detection and body awareness. She emphasized:
“I want others to listen to their bodies and push for answers when something doesn’t feel right, as early detection can make all the difference.”
Wilson-Rowe explained that the pain significantly affected her daily life, making simple tasks such as coughing, sneezing, lifting her son, and even breathing difficult. Subsequent X-rays and scans revealed a tumor in her left lung that had already metastasized.
Current Treatment and Progress
Wilson-Rowe is currently undergoing a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which, according to her statement, has been “successful so far.” She is focused on her health while surrounded by family, friends, and the cricketing community that has supported her throughout her career.
To assist with her ongoing treatment, Kent County Cricket Club has launched a fundraising initiative. Part of the funds raised will also go to the Exon 20 Group, a charity dedicated to research and treatments specific to this rare type of lung cancer.
Kent praised Wilson-Rowe’s contribution to cricket, stating:
“Susie has given so much to cricket, as a player, coach, mentor, and friend; inspiring countless others with her strength, kindness, and relentless drive.”
Celebrating a Stellar Cricket Career
Born in London, Wilson-Rowe made 79 appearances for Kent across two spells, having progressed through the club’s player pathway. She achieved significant success at the county level, winning the Women’s County Championship five times between 2006 and 2012 and the National Women’s T20 competition in 2011.
She also spent two seasons with Surrey before temporarily stepping away from cricket in 2015, during which she pursued hockey. Wilson-Rowe returned to Kent in 2020 and contributed to the team’s victories in the T20 South East Group and the Women’s London Championship.
Additionally, the right-handed batter played for London Spirit in the inaugural edition of The Hundred, before retiring from professional cricket at the end of the 2021 season.
Raising Awareness for Women’s Health in Sports
Susie Wilson-Rowe’s story highlights the importance of health awareness among athletes, particularly women in sports. Her courage in publicly sharing her cancer journey is inspiring many to pay attention to persistent health issues and seek timely medical advice.
Her ongoing battle serves as a reminder that even elite athletes are not immune to serious health conditions, and early detection can save lives.
Leave a Reply