Former Rider CEO Hopson has positive outlook amid cancer battle

In April of 2021, Jim Hopson was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer.

Since then, he’s been using his voice to make a difference.

The former president and CEO of the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders joined the Evan Bray Show on Friday to discuss what his battle has been like.

Hopson said the cancer has taken a toll on him physically.

“The one thing I sort of miss is being a big strong guy, you know? I kind of thought I could do anything,” said Hopson. “Now I’m pretty frail at times, and I need help.”

Hopson, who served as CEO of the Roughriders from 2005 to 2014, said he has great support around him in the form of a wonderful caregiver, and his wife is with him all the way as well.

Mentally, however, Hopson said the cancer battle hasn’t changed his outlook in life, which is still positive.

“I’m still very much appreciative of the life I’ve had,” said Hopson. “I feel like I’m blessed — my friends, my family, I’m proud of my education career and the things we were able to do with the Riders.”

During his battle with cancer, Hopson said he’s talked with people that he hasn’t spoken to in almost 50 years.

“They reach out and tell me stories about our time together,” said Hopson. “You get to talk to people you know and you care about.”

Hopson said he has learned a lot about himself along the way.

“I think you have to learn to approach life in a positive way,” said Hopson.

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Hopson said he started speaking out in the hope that he could change somebody’s life for the better.

“If I could make a difference and I got one person to go and get a colonoscopy that needed it, you know that’s making a difference,” said Hopson.

“I’ve had several people indicate that they went and got checked and one told me that there were some growths that needed to be removed … I guess I just like to make a difference.”

As for the upcoming season for the Green and White, Hopson said he’s excited for it and will be in attendance for the very first game.