EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- New York Giants co-owner John Mara revealed Monday that he was recently diagnosed with cancer.
Mara, who serves as the team's president and CEO, was at the team's 21-18 win over the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. He was on the field pregame alongside family and members of the organization wearing a Giants cap.
Mara, 70, said he intends to remain involved with the organization throughout his treatment.
"I'm feeling strong and optimistic, and I'm committed to seeing this through to a positive outcome. I plan to remain active with the team throughout my treatment, and I'm fortunate to be surrounded by incredible support -- personally, professionally, and medically. I ask that you respect my privacy and my family's privacy at this time," he said in a statement.
He did not disclose the type of cancer in the statement distributed by the team.
Mara has handled the day-to-day business of the organization for years. Along with Steve Tisch, he has been a front-facing presence since the deaths of their fathers. Wellington Mara and Bob Tisch died in 2005.
The Mara and Tisch families have a 50-50 split in the organization. Recently, they agreed to sell 10% of the franchise to Julia Koch and her family, a move that is still awaiting approval.
The sale is not expected to change the day-to-day operations of the team, with the Mara and Tisch families retaining full control.
A lawyer by trade, John Mara is in his 34th year with the Giants. The franchise was founded by his grandfather Tim in 1925.
John Mara is the chairperson of the NFL's management council and also has served on the league's competition committee for the past 24 years.
