Hey sports fans, be sure to tune into WXYZ Channel 7 this Friday and Sunday evenings for a special interview with Ricky Sandoval, director of security for the Detroit Lions. Ricky was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer in May 2006. Thanks to the wonderful support of Ricky’s wife Gael, his physician Philip A. Philip, MD, PhD, FRCP, along with Ricky’s incredible determination and uplifting spirit, Ricky gives us all a reason to hope – and smile.

Channel 7 sports anchor/reporter Tom Leyden visited with Ricky last week at the Karmanos Cancer Center while Ricky was preparing to receive another chemotherapy treatment.  Ricky’s generosity to share his story is done from the heart, raising awareness of this disease and advocating for the research and funding necessary to save lives. Ricky is the first one to express his thanks and gratitude to so many people who have helped him on his journey, including his wife Gael, his colleagues at the Detroit Lions, Dr. Philip and the staff at the Karmanos Cancer Center.

The short version of the interview is scheduled to air this Friday, Feb. 29, during the 5 p.m. news sportscast. The longer interview is scheduled to air Sunday, March 2, during Sunday Sports Update, which airs at 11:30 p.m.