We recently received some heartbreaking news. Champion crappie and walleye angler Tommy Skarlis has been diagnosed with a large brain tumor after suffering a seizure last week. The tumor is on the right side of his brain. According to a family friend’s Facebook post, the prognosis is not good at the moment and the doctors aren’t sure whether surgery is a good option.
Skarlis was able to spend Easter at home and will be returning to Mayo Clinic on Wednesday for biopsies and to discuss treatment strategies. He made a brief statement on his Facebook page thanking everyone for their prayers and support; it’s clear that the renowned angler isn’t letting the news keep him down.
“I am not mad at God at all,” Skarlis said. “I am overcome with joy that He has chosen me for yet another mission; the most intense one yet of my overall journey. Please be strong with me!”
The Skarlis family, including his wife and two young sons, will be facing some large out-of-pocket medical expenses during this chapter. If you’re willing and able, please consider donating to their official GoFundMe campaign.
