The Sports Xchange

Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Devon Still, who two months ago said his daughter’s Stage 4 pediatric cancer was in remission, reached out to social media to announce 5-year-old Leah has “hit a pretty serious complication” in her fight.

Leah, who turned 5 earlier this month, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma cancer last June — and her fight inspired millions across the nation and world..

Still said Friday night that Leah is experiencing complications from a stem cell transplant performed this month on the day before her birthday.

“I need some prayers sent up for Leah tonight! We hit a pretty serious complication from the stem cell transplant called VOD,” Still wrote on his Instagram account. “They caught it early so hopefully it gives the doctors a better chance of stopping it from getting aggressive. As you can imagine our minds are all over the place but we’re going to try and remain positive!”

Veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is a condition in which the small veins in the liver are obstructed and is the result of high doses of chemotherapy given before a transplant.

Leah’s story has brought awareness for pediatric cancers and the Bengals have been joined by other NFL teams in raising funds. Last November, the Bengals donated more than $1.2 million to pediatric cancer research initiatives based on a sale of Still’s black No. 75 jersey.

Last month, Leah, who has been receiving all of her treatments at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, gave the opening coin toss during Temple’s spring game. Players let her catch a pass and run for a touchdown during the game.

Still, now in his fourth season, was promoted from the Bengals’ practice squad after the first week of last season. He played in parts of 12 games, making 19 tackles.