Duane Kuiper to undergo chemo treatment
Longtime Giants broadcaster Duane Kuiper will be undergoing chemotherapy for a medical condition, he announced in a message to Giants fans released through the team on Monday.
Kuiper said he still plans to keep broadcasting Giants games this season, although his condition might lead to him missing some games.
"I wanted to let you know that I may be missing a few more Giants broadcasts than usual, and I wanted to share what's going on with me," Kuiper said in the statement. "After some tests and visits with doctors, I was diagnosed with a medical condition that requires me to immediately begin chemotherapy treatment. I feel very fortunate that I have an incredibly talented team of doctors and healthcare specialists who will be assisting me throughout my treatment plan. And, of course, the support and love of my entire family, along with our incredible fans, everyone at the Giants, NBC Sports Bay Area and KNBR is overwhelming and deeply appreciated.
"I still plan on broadcasting this season, though I may take a few more games off if I'm not feeling well, and I want to thank my broadcast partners for their unconditional support and willingness to step in and cover for me. Thank you for your prayers and for giving me the space and privacy to focus on my health at this time. While this was not the adventure I anticipated, I'm staying positive for a quick and full recovery."
Kuiper and partner Mike Krukow, who were teammates on the Giants in the 1980s, are one of baseball's most acclaimed television broadcasting duos and are in their 31st season together. Kuiper also calls Giants games on the radio.
Kuiper, who is about to turn 71, is a 13-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster who has called memorable Giants moments like Barry Bonds' 715th and 756th home runs to pass Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron, respectively, to set the all-time record; Matt Cain's perfect game; and the franchise's first World Series championship since 1954 in 2010.
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"Duane is a tremendous professional and an excellent person," NBC Sports Bay Area said in a statement. "He has the complete and unconditional support of his colleagues and friends at NBC Sports Bay Area, and we offer our positive thoughts and encouragement to him and his loved ones as he manages his health. His entire professional family is wishing for a successful recovery."