Terry Price, the defensive line coach for Texas A&M Aggies, passed away on June 26, 2023, at the age of 55. He was a beloved figure in the college football community, known for his talent, passion, and integrity. He left behind his wife, Kenya, and their two sons, Alexander and Devin.
But what was the cause of Terry Price’s death? How did he cope with his illness? And how will he be remembered by his colleagues, players, and fans?
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The Diagnosis: Stage IV Cancer
The cause of Terry Price’s death was Stage IV cancer, an advanced stage of the disease. Although specific details regarding the type and progression of the cancer have not been disclosed, it is clear that Price faced a prolonged and arduous battle against this formidable illness.
Stage IV cancer means that the cancer has spread beyond the original site to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, bones, or brain. This makes it more difficult to treat and often incurable. The symptoms and prognosis of Stage IV cancer depend on the type and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and response to treatment.
According to Sportskeeda, Price was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and underwent several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. He continued to work as a coach for Texas A&M despite his condition, showing remarkable strength and resilience.
The Treatment: Chemotherapy and Radiation
The main treatments for Stage IV cancer are chemotherapy and radiation, which aim to kill or shrink the cancer cells and slow down their growth. Chemotherapy is a drug therapy that can be given orally or intravenously. Radiation is a high-energy beam that targets specific areas of the body where the cancer is located.
Both chemotherapy and radiation have side effects that can affect the patient’s quality of life. These include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, pain, infection, bleeding, and damage to healthy tissues and organs. The severity and duration of these side effects vary depending on the type and dose of treatment, as well as the patient’s individual reaction.
According to ESPN, Price endured multiple cycles of chemotherapy and radiation over the course of his illness. He often had to travel to Houston for his treatment sessions, which took a toll on his physical and mental health. He also had to deal with the emotional stress of coping with his diagnosis and prognosis.
The Legacy: A Respected Coach and Mentor
Despite his illness, Price never gave up on his passion for coaching and mentoring young athletes. He was a loyal and dedicated member of the Texas A&M staff since 2012, working with the defensive ends specifically since 2015. He helped develop some of the best defensive players in the country, such as Myles Garrett, Justin Madubuike, DeMarvin Leal, and Dylon Mack.
Price was also a former player for Texas A&M from 1986 to 1989, leading the defensive line in tackles during his junior and senior seasons. He earned All-Southwest Conference honors as a senior and was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1990. He played one season in the NFL before transitioning into coaching.
Price had a long and successful coaching career that spanned over three decades. He coached at Auburn from 1999 to 2008 and at Ole Miss from 1995 to 1998 and from 2009 to 2011. He was part of 21 bowl games during his coaching tenure.
Price was not only a skilled coach but also a caring mentor who built strong relationships with his players. He was known for his regular defensive lineman cookouts, where he invited his players to his home for food and fellowship. He also taught them valuable life lessons on and off the field.
Price was widely respected and admired by his colleagues, players, and fans for his professionalism, integrity, and character. He received an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the college football community after his death.
The Conclusion: A Heroic Fight Against Cancer
Terry Price’s cause of death was Stage IV cancer, a devastating disease that he battled bravely for four years. He did not let his illness stop him from pursuing his passion for coaching and mentoring young athletes. He left behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and compassion that will be remembered by many.
Terry Price was a fighter who inspired others with his courage and determination. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and fans. Rest in peace, Coach Price.
