UK golf star Cullan Brown diagnosed with cancer

The University of Kentucky has announced that sophomore men’s golfer Cullan Brown has been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, in his left thigh.

Treatment for the disease will require chemotherapy and surgery, which is forcing Brown to withdraw from UK and not compete during the 2019-20 season.

“My family and I are immensely appreciative of the outpouring of kind words, well-wishes, love and prayers we have received in the last few weeks from family, friends and the Big Blue Nation,” Brown said. “It certainly will be a tough year, but nothing that can’t be handled thanks to the amazing support group I have behind me at all times.

“Even though I will not be with my team in person this year, I will be there in spirit every time they compete, which I have full faith they will continue to do with the upmost integrity, passion and excellence.”

UK has also announced that 2019-20 men’s golf team will use the hashtag #B4B this season to honor their teammate as their team slogan, which stands for “Birdies for Brownie.” They will wear it on clothing and hats within the team’s official tournament gear.

“Our hearts are hurting for Cullan and his family,” UK head coach Brian Craig said. “I honestly do not believe God has ever created a young man as unique and special as Cullan. His love for people and his giftedness are extraordinary. We, as a team, could not love him any more than we do and we will stand with him through this challenge with fervent loyalty, support and prayer.

“Cullan has always been full of faith and hope and enthusiasm with everything in his life. He and God are going to whip this thing over the next year and it is going to be one sweet victory. I also know God will ultimately use this in Cullan’s life to bless other people who are facing difficult challenges. What a story of faith, hope and courage he is going to have to help lift up other people and I can’t wait until that day comes.”

An Eddyville (KY) native, Brown was an All-SEC Freshman Team selection after producing a 72.42 stroke average over eight events in his first collegiate season. He missed the fall slate due to a wrist injury, but appeared in every event during the spring season.

Brown had four top-20 finishes last season.

“The UK men’s golf team and our entire athletics department are behind Cullan and his family,” UK athletic director Mitch Barnhart said. “This news was difficult to hear, but the same things that make Cullan such an extraordinary competitor, teammate and young man are why we know he can overcome this. We ask the Big Blue Nation to join us in rallying behind him while respecting the privacy of the Brown family.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Brown as he begins his battle with this terrible disease.