The Woman Who Stood by Coach Prime During Cancer Battle Is Winning Hearts

The Woman Who Stood by Coach Prime During Cancer Battle Is Winning Hearts originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders announced on Monday that earlier this offseason, he underwent a procedure to remove his bladder after doctors revealed he had a tumor. With retirement rumors spreading like wildfire, the third-year Colorado coach also confirmed that he will be on the sidelines this season for the Buffs.

While speaking to the media, Sanders was joined by Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urological oncology at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, and assistant athletic trainer Lauren Askevold.

It was Kukreja who announced that Sanders was cancer-free, but it was Askevold who has captivated the hearts of fans all over social media for her unwavering support for Sanders. In a video shared to Well Off Media, Askevold could be seen sitting next to Sanders before his operation and offering words of encouragement, while also ensuring every question imaginable was asked to ensure they were aware of what was next.

"Man Lauren basically one of his daughters too, been with him through all of these surgeries," wrote one fan.

"After today’s press conference, I’m convinced that Lauren is a true angel on earth," added a second.

"Coach health assistant Lauren is the best! Genuinely can tell she cares about Coach. She been around since JSU she’s amazing and trustworthy," said another.

"Thank the Lord for Lauren being in the family. She is amazing," exclaimed another.

"Prayers for Lauren as well she's AWESOME," wrote one fan.

Aside from being on-hand for Sanders' surgery and Monday announcement, Askevold also confirmed in the video how many surgeries she has witnessed Sanders undergo.

"This is (surgery) No. 14 by the way," Askevold said. "Yeah, since 2021... It's 2025."

Sanders underwent a procedure that saw two of his toes amputated in 2022, and another emergency surgery in June 2023 to treat blood clots. As for Askevold, she has been there every step of the way, as she was the Head Football Athletic Trainer at Jackson State starting 2021, and joined Sanders once he took the job in Boulder.

What's Next for Deion Sanders After His Health Update?

Although concerns around college football were growing, Monday provided fans of the sport the best news possible. Sanders will make his return to coaching on August 29 against Georgia Tech.

Before then, he will need to help the Buffs settle position battles at offensive line, wide receiver, safety and most importantly, quarterback. Needless to say, Coach Prime will have plenty of distractions from his recovery in the coming weeks as the Buffs look to build off a 9-4 2024 season.

Related: Deion Sanders Provides Critical Health Update Amid Retirement Rumors

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared.