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Colts head coach Chuck Pagano continues to battle back from leukemia, enduring two rounds of chemotherapy treatments since he took a leave of absence from the team in early October. Since that emotional day, on October 1st, when the team announced Pagano would take time off to undergo these treatments, the news has been steady and encouraging. Doctors told the Indianapolis Star nearly three weeks ago that Pagano's cancer was in remission, and the coach has been strong enough to attend a game, a few coaches meetings, and at least one practice.
He also made a helluva great post-game speech to the team following the Dolphins game back in Week 9.
Today, ESPN's Chris Mortensen tells us that Pagano's second round of chemotherapy treatments - described by cancer survivor and current interim head coach for the Colts Bruce Arians as the hardest to endure - went very well.
Great Thanksgiving for #Colts coach Chuck Pagano. 2nd chemotherapy went very well. Home for holiday. Held new baby grandaughter Zoe (9 lbs!)
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) November 25, 2012
Pagano starts 3rd & final chemo on Fri. Doctor says he's still in complete remission. Text he's BLESSED! #Chuckstrong
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) November 25, 2012
The Colts and Pagano have targeted December 30th for his return to either the sidelines or the booth. That December 30th game is Week 17 against the Houston Texans.
For anyone that thinks that cancer and chemo have robbed Pagano of his will to coach, Mortensen offers up this tweet:
Just to show there's a still a coach in Chuck Pagano, he was not pleased with Colts showing vs. Patriots last Sunday, putting it mildly.
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) November 25, 2012
#CHUCKSTRONG