The 2024 USBC Masters champion DeeRonn Booker has announced that he has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
The 35-year-old right-hander from Albuquerque, New Mexico, shared the news on Instagram and said he is preparing for a long road to recovery.
“A week ago I was diagnosed with BPDCN, a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. I’m never one to share bad news over social media, but I felt like this was important. I have a long road to recovery, but I’m going to beat this,” Booker wrote.
BPDCN, or blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm, is a rare, fast-growing blood cancer that can affect the blood, bone marrow and skin.
Booker has already started chemotherapy and will remain in the hospital under medical supervision for the next month. He will also need a bone marrow transplant as part of his treatment.
Booker won the 2024 USBC Masters at Suncoast Bowling Center in Las Vegas. The victory made him the third African-American bowler to win a major championship on the PBA Tour.
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His sister, Kaprice Booker, created a fundraiser titled “Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting BPDCN Together.” She called on those who have been supported, encouraged or inspired by Booker to stand with him during his treatment.
“The funds raised through this campaign will help cover ongoing chemotherapy, access to specialized drugs for DeeRonn’s particular cancer, and travel opportunities to participate in distant clinical trials and case studies,” Kaprice Booker said. “They will also help with medical bills, co-pays, and future financial challenges related to the disease.”
Those wishing to support DeeRonn Booker and his family can join the fundraiser.
Hope for DeeRonn: Fighting (BPDCN) Together
Rallying Around PBA Champion DeeRonn Booker
DeeRonn is battling a rare and aggressive cancer (BPDCN). Funds raised through this campaign help cover ongoing chemotherapy, specialized treatment, travel for clinical trials, and medical expenses so he can focus entirely on his recovery.
The bowling community quickly responded after Booker shared his diagnosis.
"Woke up to the news that Masters Champion and just all-round fantastic human DeeRonn Booker has been diagnosed with leukemia," Jason Belmonte wrote. "Really hope the bowling community pulls together and gives as much support as he needs. He deserves it!"
