Dwyane Wade Chooses Father Over Wife for Cancer Surgery Support

NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade revealed on Hoda Kotb’s 'Making Space' podcast that, ahead of his 2023 kidney cancer surgery, he chose his father, Dwyane Wade Sr., to be with him in the pre-op room instead of his wife, Gabrielle Union. Wade explained that in his most vulnerable and fearful moment, he instinctively wanted his father, who had always been a steady presence in his life. Although he wanted his wife to be the first person he saw after surgery, Wade felt he needed his dad by his side before the operation. The shared experience of both men battling cancer—Wade Sr. with prostate cancer—strengthened their bond and prompted more open conversations about health within their family. Wade said this connection helped them share personal experiences and support each other through their respective health journeys. The choice highlighted the depth of the father-son relationship and its importance during Wade’s most challenging time.