Is Dickie V Done For The Season?

I noted this earlier in the year, but Dickie V’s voice just did not sound right for the first few games he called. Well apparently it’s due to lesions on his vocal cord. Dickie V typed an online letter to fans about this and his upcoming surgery on his website….

To: My favorite people, all of the fans who make college basketball special!
From: Dick Vitale

During the past month and a half, I have had a very difficult time with discomfort in my throat. Personally, I want to apologize to all of the fans and all of the beautiful people at ESPN who have been fantastic to me during my 29 years working at the network.

I have been blessed to have the opportunity to work with so many wonderful people, especially my current teammates, Dan Shulman, Doris Burke, coordinating producer Dan Steir and director Doug Holmes, whom have all been so understanding and supportive.

The past six weeks have been very emotional for me and for my family as we’ve visited some of the most outstanding throat specialists. Fortunately, I am currently under the guidance of Dr. Daniel Deems in Sarasota, Fla. and he is an outstanding ear, nose and throat specialist. Dr. Deems strongly recommended that I visit Dr. Steven Zeitels, who is recognized as one of the premier throat and voice specialists in the nation.

Dr. Zeitels serves as the director for the Center for Laryngeal Surgery and Voice Rehabilitation at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. After an examination, it was determined that I had lesions on my left vocal cord and that they should be surgically removed. Dr. Zeitels said his goal is to have me back sitting at courtside in early February.

That’s not good at all. I’m one of the few people that enjoy Vitale on broadcasts. Sure I poke fun at the fact he can never stay on topic, but the guy has been an ambassador for the Sport and a staple for almost 30 years.

Get better soon Dickie V.

Dick Vitale Will Have Throat Sugery (The Sporting Blog)
Letter To My Fans (Dickie V)

UPDATE: Good news. Surgery went well.

Dickie V sidelined by surgery until at least February (ESPN via Mez)