Dwyane Wade’s Son Zaire Calls Him ‘Superman’ During Cancer Recovery

Dwyane Wade attributes his resilience during his kidney cancer recovery to his family's support. On the March 11 episode of Today With Jenna & Friends, Wade candidly shared his feelings about vulnerability. "I’m a very prideful man. I was mostly afraid of being vulnerable in front of my wife," he revealed in a touching video package. His son Zaire, 23, encouraged him by calling him "Superman" during his difficult moments. This phrase highlighted Zaire's admiration, emphasizing how family members often become sources of strength in times of weakness.
Wade, who also has a daughter, Zaya, 17, with his ex-wife Siohvaughn Funches and a daughter, Kaavia, 6, with Gabrielle Union, reflected on his health concerns following his 40th birthday. Symptoms like a slow urine stream and stomach cramps led Wade to seek medical attention. Given his family's cancer history, including his father and grandfather's battles with prostate cancer, he realized the seriousness of his condition.

Wade underwent surgery for a kidney tumor in December 2023. Doctors later confirmed the tumor was cancerous but in the stage 1 phase. In the video, Wade expressed gratitude, saying, "I feel like one of the lucky ones." He talked about the emotional effects of his surgery recovery on his family. "It was tough for my family to see me weak," he acknowledged. Nevertheless, he appreciated that their concern gave him unexpected strength and highlighted the importance of accepting support from loved ones.
Wade also thanked the medical professionals involved in his care and urged the public to prioritize their health. "Many men, particularly in the Black community, are too prideful to seek help," he remarked. He encouraged everyone to approach health proactively by seeking routines to improve their lives. "Say ‘Hey, I want to live a long life. How do I do that?’" he suggested.
At the conclusion of the interview, Wade became emotional after host Jenna Bush Hager commented on his vulnerability, noting that it showcases strength and beauty. His cancer journey was first publicly shared during January’s The Why podcast, revealing the immense support from his family and friends during his battle. "In that process of my weakness, I found strength in my family, in my friends," he said. Wade reflected on this journey as a turning point, influencing a positive change in his approach to life.
Gabrielle Union, his wife, described Wade's cancer diagnosis as "traumatic." During her February appearance on Jenna & Friends, she discussed the challenge of embracing vulnerability during such testing times. "He needed us to be OK with his vulnerability," she acknowledged, emphasizing the significance of openly receiving and giving support during difficult times.
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