A video game streamer known as Ninja has announced that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer. The famous internet celebrity, 32, whose real name is Tyler Blevins, shared the news with X on March 26.
He posted, divulging to fans, that he was surprised to learn a mole on his foot was cancerous after undergoing a routine skin and mole check a few weeks ago. The professional gamer with determination etched into his words, candidly disclosed that alongside the mole subjected to biopsy, there was yet another ominous dark spot lurking nearby. He made the decision to undergo a more ample procedure, opting to have a larger area around the melanoma surgically removed.
In simpler terms, he extended the surgical area beyond the normal spot to make sure that all cancerous cells, which produce skin pigment, were completely eliminated. He aimed to keep a wider margin of healthier tissue. His optimism in the latter part of the post stemmed from his hope of microscopic examination and the confirmation that the cancerous growth might be fully removed.
He wrote,
“with the hopes that under the microscope they will see clear non-melanoma edges and we will know we got it. I’m grateful to have hope in finding this early, but please take this as a PSA to get skin checkups.”
Blevins has not returned with more information on the subject. According to Today.com, a representative for Blevins did not return a request for comment by NBC News.
Blevins, commands a significant presence on the streaming platform Twitch, boasting an impressive following of over 19 million enthusiasts who tune in to watch him play video games. The sudden revelation came as a shock to many of his predominantly youthful fan base.
Although numerous speculations have surfaced online, concrete details remain scarce. Nonetheless, a sense of déjà vu grips his followers, as comparisons to another prominent gamer, dubbed Technoblade, emerged, hinting at potential parallels.
Technoblade’s untimely passing occurred several years ago, following his candid disclosure to subscribers regarding his battle with cancer. In a poignant video entitled Where I’ve Been, he courageously shared his diagnosis without specifying the exact type of cancer he faced. Despite this, he actively participated in fundraising efforts, collaborating with the Sarcoma Foundation of America to support research and awareness initiatives.
Indeed, it’s a remarkable testament to the power of positive communities within the gaming world, which have the unique ability to foster camaraderie and support, even in the face of adversity. The willingness of individuals like Technoblade and Ninja to openly share their personal struggles demonstrates the profound sense of trust and comfort that exists within these communities of gamers.