John Walton, play-by-play for the Washington Capitals releases statement about his health

As National Hockey League teams begin to ramp up for training camps some important yet concerning news has been released by John Walton, the play-by-play announcer for the Washington Capitals .

In a statement, Walton discussed that he went to hospital for what he described as a routine colonoscopy which he believed was nothing out of the ordinary. Unfortunately, as he learned of the results, it was discovered that he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Walton went on to explain that he will be having between 8-10 inches of his colon removed which includes the mass that formed there. At which time, he will be released from the hospital to go home to continue his recovery.

Walton's diagnosis is no different than the tens of thousands who are told that they have cancer, yet it's his optimism is encouraging. Many of us either have been or know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer and although each case is different, the medical field has got to a point where many cancers can be treated, and people can lead a long and fruitful life after experiencing this difficult disease.

He is adamant that he will be back in the broadcast booth for the first preseason game in a few short weeks and that's honestly the best news and most important thing at this time. Walton reminds those who are 45 or older to go get checked for colon cancer.