COLORADO SPRINGS — One year ago, Colorado Springs Christian High School's football coach had to temporarily leave the sidelines and the classroom. During the 2023 football season, Amos Velasquez was experiencing major stomach pains.
The pain got to an excruciating point, making Velasquez choose to make a trip to the emergency room. He was later diagnosed with stage four colon cancer.
“It was devastating," said Velasquez. "I have four kids and been married 20 years. So, the first thing that goes through my mind is who is going to take care of my kids.”
Following the diagnosis Velasquez underwent surgery to remove a tumor from his stomach. In November of 2023, he began his chemotherapy treatments. Despite facing major health issues, one of his biggest frustrations was being away from his players and students.
The chemotherapy was completed in April, and in July, he was notified that he was in remission. Throughout his treatment process, he received an outstanding amount of support from the families of his players and the entire Colorado Springs Christian community.
Velasquez is back on the sidelines this season as his Lions have returned a strong group and will look to make another deep playoff run.
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