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Blackhawks broadcaster Eddie Olczyk diagnosed with colon cancer

Chicago Blackhawks broadcaster Eddie Olczyk has been diagnosed with colon cancer, the longtime color analyst announced in a statement through the team on Tuesday afternoon.

Olczyk, 50, said he’s presently undergoing treatment for the disease, and that he expects to return to broadcasting once he’s ready. Here’s the full statement:

I have been diagnosed with a form of colon cancer and am currently undergoing treatment for the disease. I have been working with outstanding health care professionals and expect to be back in the broadcast booth after I complete my treatment. Having the support and encouragement from my family, the Chicago Blackhawks organization, NBC Sports and all my friends and fans means the world to me and will give me continued strength to beat this. My family and I appreciate privacy during this time as we focus our attention on my treatments.

Blackhawks team doctor Michael Terry said that Olczyk underwent a procedure to remove a tumor last week, and “will be undergoing further treatment in the coming weeks, including chemotherapy.”

With only two months until the season begins, he won’t be ready return to the booth in early October, according to NBC Sports executive producer Sam Flood. It appears this only applies for national broadcasts on NBCSN, but it wouldn’t be surprising if he also missed calling Hawks games locally.

This is some tough news to hear for Blackhawks fans. Olczyk began calling games for the team’s local broadcasts during the 2006-07 season. He’s become a staple of Chicago hockey coverage ever since, teaming up with Pat Foley to become the voices of the Hawks on TV.

We’re rooting for Olczyk to get back as soon as possible. Our hearts go out to him and everyone in his family.

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