Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert turns grief over son’s rare disease into search for a cure
Dan Gilbert, owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, has turned his grief over the loss of his son Nick into a mission to find a cure for neurofibromatosis. Despite battling the disease for years, Nick remained determined and engaged with his community until his passing in 2023. Gilbert reflects on the challenges of wealth and access to medical care when faced with such a devastating illness.
- ▪Nick Gilbert battled neurofibromatosis, undergoing multiple surgeries and treatments.
- ▪He was a beloved figure in both Detroit and Cleveland, known for his determination and spirit.
- ▪Dan Gilbert expressed frustration at the limitations of medical advancements despite his resources.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
After the surgery, Nick underwent several rounds of chemo and radiation therapy. But he didn't let that stand in the way of achieving his goals. Despite his battle with NF, Nick was still able to maintain close friendships, attend Michigan State, and even work as an intern in the business development unit at his dad's company. But by 2018, the disease was catching up with him."There were some tumors, that just kind of got away from us," Gilbert said. "We had two major surgeries that year. And from that point on, until 2023 when we lost him, there were just surgeries and chemo."Gilbert says they tried everything, but a tumor on his brainstem grew too quickly for them to manage. "These weren't cancerous tumors.
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