Collingwood president Jeff Browne has revealed that he has myeloma, a type of blood cancer but declared himself in good shape to continue leading the Magpies while receiving treatment for the illness.
The 72-year-old became Collingwood president at the end of 2021 and has overseen a transformation of the club under the coaching of Craig McRae.
He was diagnosed with the disease a month ago, when the football industry and the Collingwood Football Club became aware of his condition.
He told News Corp that he was undergoing chemotherapy: “I have started treatment and, my friend, let me tell you that all my blood tests are within the range and I am responding very well.”
Browne celebrated the Magpies’ historic premiership win over the Brisbane Lions on Saturday, attending the match and an official club function to share the moment with friends, family and club staff.
He played down the impact the health battle has had on his life despite it requiring treatment and time in hospital.
“[It was] a bit of pit stop, a little bit of late pre-season training and got myself back into it,” Browne said at the Pies’ post-premiership function.
He has also been telling people privately that he is in good shape and ready to attack his treatment, attending the club’s Copeland Trophy count at Crown Casino on Friday night to present the award to Magpies Josh Daicos.
As well as being Collingwood president, Browne is chairman of MA Financial Group, Walkinshaw Automotive and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
Browne was the former managing director of Channel Nine and AFL Lawyer from 1985-2005.
