Steve Byrnes diagnosed with cancer (Update)

UPDATE Fox Sports' Steve Byrnes, who has been on leave from the network while battling Stage 4 head-and-neck cancer, tweeted Wednesday evening, "My Oncologist just called and said my PET scan showed 'progress.' Thanks for your prayers, and Happy Thanksgiving. Grateful!"

10/09/14 For many years now Steve Byrnes has been a major staple in the world of NASCAR themed television. His knowledge of the sport, combined with his sense of humor, has endeared him with the fans beginning with the SPEED Channel and continuing with his current presence as an analyst with Fox Sports 1.

That's why it was so sad to learn that Byrnes is, once again, dealing with the serious issue of cancer. The details were recently released via a press release from Fox Sports which stated:

"Steve Byrnes' cancer has returned: Longtime NASCAR on FOX on-air personality Steve Byrnes is taking an indefinite medical leave of absence, effectively immediately, to focus on his health after receiving news he has suffered a recurrence of cancer"

"Byrnes, who was diagnosed and successfully treated for head-and-neck cancer in late 2013, steps away from his NASCAR Race Hub co-hosting and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series play-by-play duties for FOX Sports 1 to concentrate on his upcoming medical treatment and time with his family. Any further updates on Byrnes will come at the discretion of the family."

Again, keep Steve and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they, once again, deal with the drama associated with this terrible disease. He's one of the NASCAR good guys.

DAVE GRAYSON