Popular rugby league commentator Ray `Rabbits’ Warren has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Warren, 67, said on Saturday he was diagnosed with cancer three days ago but was optimistic of making a full recovery.
“It’s devastating and I’ve got to take on this challenge now but I’m very positive,” Warren announced on Triple M’s Dead Set Legends program.
“… By this time next week I might be rid of the prostate cancer, through operation.
Warren said a hospital visit in October 2010, which almost led to him missing the NRL grand final, was linked with the recent cancer diagnosis.
“I had a thing called prostatitis,” the Nine Network commentator said.
“The doctor said then there was something wrong with my prostate.
“It’s been eight months checking the PSA blood reading, and it hasn’t come down sufficiently.
“You don’t want to leave this life when you’re having a good time and I’m having a very good time, because I’ve got a lovely wife and a 13-year-old daughter.”
Warren had CAT scans and bone scans on Friday and said he was hopeful after speaking with friends who had also had prostate cancer.
“I’m sure I’ll be OK,” Warren said.
“I’ve had so many friends (that have had it) that have rung me, and they’re OK.
“It’s game on.”
Warren, commonly referred to as `the voice of rugby league’, began commentating on the Amco Cup competition in the 1970s and became Network Ten’s chief rugby league commentator in 1983.
After spending time also calling horse racing, he was recruited by the Nine Network in 1989 to call State of Origin and swimming.
He has called rugby league full-time since Nine acquired the television rights to the game in 1992.
Margaret M
Guest
Asking after Ray Warren (If it is okay to ask) knowing surgery is in 2015 All the Best To you & Family
Jeff
Guest
I have faced 'The Beast and won.. If diagnoses is early enough. one operation will have Rabs 'Waffling' on our teles for years.. Good luck our prayers are with you.
barry bourke
Guest
It was only a couple weeks ago i met with you at the broard casting box upstairsCanberra Raiders stadium,we had a long talk re our years in Canberra .If you remember i introduced u to my grand son James Stuart he had his first big test today on the wing at Brisbane,very pleased with his game. he will go places i hope .he loves it.he enjoyed your conversation re preparing yourself in a career of rugby league.or any professionQoute re looking up at the stars, GOOD ONE RAY. I will never forget that Ras He was so elated and pleasure to meet with you .with out pre notice.. Freda my wife and i wish you a happy results with all the tests that go with this procedure. Knowing you as long as i have there is no dought .you are a fighter.and have plenty of friends and business associates alike,wshing you all the best. There are many years left ahead for you ras, with Football , Horse Racing .GOOD LUck Bazza
Jamesb
Guest
Strikes me a as a tough as nails bloke who will beat this bastard!
Lyn & Tom Broadhurst
Guest
I agree about laughter being the best medicine, but hang on. The Blues walloping the Cane Toads. I hope not, but hey, the blues are improving.
Lyn & Tom Broadhurst
Guest
Rabs - Like the Tina Turner theme tune for Rugby League. - You're the best, simply the best. Both T and me and beaten the Big C. Hang in there. Like thousands of others, our thoughts are with you.
oikee
Guest
The game wont be the same without Rabs, he is getting better with age, like a fine wine. Get well Rabs, we need you mate.
Matt S
Guest
Go Rabs, if anyone can fight this, he can. Best wishes.
Another Martin!
Guest
He announced it on his 68th birthday. What a landmark birthday for him. I wish Ray well. I know of two people who have beaten it so I have my fingers crossed. He is a league icon.
Harry
Guest
Good luck Rabs. Can remember him doing the Amco Cup back in the mid 70's, and he sounded like what he was in those days ... a race caller drafted into rugby league commentating. Improved immensley on the league calling front these days and has evoled into a knowledgeable, clevver commentator with his own personality adding to the enjoyment of the broadcast.
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Your a good bloke Rabs. Good luck with the recovery. I know of a bloke who went to the doctor for a check-up recently, and after the doc had procured a rubber glove and inserted a finger in his rectum, he was informed that he had prostate cancer. The guy then asked the doctor to insert another finger in his bottom. The doctor asked why, and he replied "Because I want a second opinion ". Laughter is the best medicine Rabs, and a close second will be watching The Blues wallop the Cane Toads.