U.S. Open champion Corey Pavin revealed a difficult setback in his wife Lisa’s ongoing battle with cancer.
“Seven plus months ago, I posted that @lisap0810 had her last chemotherapy,” Corey, 66, shared via Instagram on Tuesday, October 6. “We found out a couple months ago that her cancer never went away completely.”
After several visits to The Mayo Clinic, Lisa underwent CAR-T infusion on Tuesday. CAR-T infusion is “a personalized gene therapy where a patient’s modified immune cells are given back through an intravenous (IV) line to target and destroy cancer cells,” according to the American Cancer Society.
“We are hoping and praying that this will kick her cancer’s ass!” Corey wrote. “The emotional and physical toll fighting cancer is immense, and I’m so proud of Lisa’s courage, attitude and perseverance!”
He added, “To the doctors, nurses and everyone at The Mayo Clinic, a heartfelt thank you for your care and empathy! And much gratitude to all of Lisa’s friends who have reached out to her for your prayers and support which has helped more than you will ever know!”
Corey — who won the U.S. Open in 1995 and has an additional 14 PGA Tour victories to his name — and Lisa got married in 2003. The couple share daughter Alexis, 18.
In February, Corey optimistically shared that Lisa had her “6th and final chemo.”
“Lisa has been incredible, upbeat, strong, persevering, loving, determined, positive, resolute and simply awesome throughout her treatment,” he posted via Instagram. “She has been the best patient to care for. And it will continue to be my honor and privilege to take care of my bride.”
Corey continued, “There is still a lot of recovery ahead in the next few months. We appreciate the outpouring of love, prayers and heartfelt concern from so many of Lisa’s friends! All of you have helped her get through her cancer treatment. So much love and positivity goes a long way. Thank you everyone!”
Amid Lisa’s cancer battle, she and Corey sent daughter Alexa off to the University of California, Santa Barbara last month.
“@alexispavin, tomorrow is your first day of college!!” Corey shared via Instagram on September 23. “We are so proud of you and the young woman you have become! We are sure you are going to thrive out in Cali. We will miss your love, wit, ‘charm,’ and your unique (and wonderful) personality! And most of all, we will miss you. We love you more than you will ever know! ❤️.”
