Jim Kelly Diagnosed with Jaw Bone Cancer

UPDATE: The Buffalo Bills released a statement Friday morning, announcing Kelly underwent successful surgery.

Here is the statement in full:

“At Mr. Kelly’s request, we thank everyone for their concern and well wishes for him and his family. Today, Mr. Kelly underwent a partial maxillectomy to remove a squamous cell carcinoma of the upper gingival caused be chronic irritation at the gum site. He underwent reconstruction with a dental obturator. The surgery went very well. We are hopeful for and anticipate a speedy recovery and successful outcome. Mr. Kelly is recovering comfortably at this time. He is in the capable care of the great nurses and staff here at ECMC. He will remain here at the hospital until he feels comfortable to go home.”

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Early Monday morning, former Buffalo Bills and Hall of Fame quarterback released a statement announcing he had been diagnosed with jaw bone cancer.

In the release, Kelly mentioned the last few weeks have been very “difficult” and that the outlook is positive.

“I was recently diagnosed with Squamous-cell carcinoma (cancer) of the upper jaw bone. I have undergone tests which have shown that the cancer is isolated to my upper jaw and has not spread to other parts of my body. Surgery is scheduled for June 7th and doctors have told me that the prognosis for my recovery is very good,” Kelly said in his statement.

“I plan to tackle this challenge head on, as we Kelly’s always do, with toughness, perseverance and faith… I want to thank everyone who has offered their prayers and would appreciate any prayers said for me and my family moving forward. May God continue to bless you and our family.”

Kelly spent 11 years as a member of the Bills, leading the franchise to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, though he never brought the Lombardi Trophy home to upstate New York.