Syracuse Football: 5 questions with Central Michigan HC John Bonamego

MOUNT PLEASANT, MI - SEPTEMBER 1: John Bonamego head coach of the Central Michigan Chippewas during the game against the Presbyterian Blue Hose at Kelly/Shorts Stadium on September 1, 2016 in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images)
MOUNT PLEASANT, MI - SEPTEMBER 1: John Bonamego head coach of the Central Michigan Chippewas during the game against the Presbyterian Blue Hose at Kelly/Shorts Stadium on September 1, 2016 in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /
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Paul A. Esden Jr. (@BoyGreen25): 

Coach soon after you got your dream job you were then diagnosed with tonsil cancer. You’ve now been pronounced cancer free, can you tell us about that journey and facing that level of adversity?

John Bonamego (@CMUCoachBono):

I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. My heart goes out to anyone that is battling any kind of cancer right now. Continuing with that, I extend my heart out to all the families that are dealing with loved ones going through this.

The hardest part for me was looking at my wife and kids going through this. I honestly felt like I

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was in control going through this disease and they’re were just along for the ride. The reception I got from the people who reached out to me personally was amazing, their support was much appreciated.

I felt very fortunate on multiple fronts. It was caught very early. Secondly it was one of the cancer diseases that was highly treatable. I thought I was getting the very best medical attention on the planet. While lastly and probably most importantly the support of my family, I should’ve mentioned them first. The support from the University of Central Michigan just goes beyond words.

I just really considered it another opponent on the schedule for me. While our opponents may have had empathy with us heading into the games. Once the whistles blew and the ball was kicked off, the opposing team didn’t care if your coach had cancer. I wasn’t going to allow my condition to affect the team. It was by no means easy. I’m proud to say I didn’t have to go through this alone.