Walsh had his cancerous kidney removed last July in Boston, but tumors were later discovered under his breastplate. In August and October, Walsh underwent two treatments in California to boost his immune system. Further tests revealed the tumors remained. While Maine was preparing for the Hockey East tournament two weeks ago, Walsh flew to Bethesda for more tests. He decided to have a stem cell transplant.
Stem cells are immature cells that develop into blood cells.
A study published in September by the New England Journal of Medicine noted the cancer regressed in 10 of 19 patients after a stem cell transplant. The article cited Walsh's doctors. Walsh said his surgery Thursday, which includes the reduction of tumors under his breastplate in addition to removal of the lung, is meant to improve chances of the stem cell transplant working. But they said it won't change a bit. Walsh was ejected from the game Saturday night for arguing.