West Returns to Cavaliers Following Treatment
Delonte West returned to the team this week after receiving treatment for a mood disorder that he courageously admitted to both the Cleveland Cavaliers organization as well as the media.
“In a sense, you feel like a weaker man because you have to raise your hand and ask for help,” West said. “But I found out over the last week that it made me a stronger person. I came back focused, and with the help of some medicine and talking with people on a regular basis, I’m back in good spirits. I’m back here 100 percent.”
An Associated Press article added the following details and quotes from Delonte:
West said his mood problems date to his childhood. He has always been able to find peace in the gym, but he has struggled with relationships away from the floor.
West said his mood swings seem to be most erratic when his life seems to be in order.
“When everything is on the upside, I’m feeling the worst,” said West, who thanked his teammates, including LeBron James, for their support while he was away.
“This is the epitome of a family organization,” he said. “I want to go to war for these people. I would die for them, I really mean that.”
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown wasn’t surprised to hear that West was open about discussing his condition.
“He’s a good guy,” Brown said. “He’s a trustworthy guy and forthright.”
West said he’s not concerned about any outside perception about his condition and he’s not worried about what others think about him.
“Only God is my judge,” he said. “All that matters is how I feel about myself.”
Comments
Leave a Reply