After impressing his oncologist, Greg Papa’s ‘impossible dream’ comeback begins Thursday
Niners radio announcer Greg Papa on the sidelines before the 2025 regular-season finale against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium on Jan. 3. It was Papa’s first game back after undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia B-cell, which was diagnosed before the season.
TL;DR
- Greg Papa, 49ers radio announcer, is returning to work six months after a bone-marrow transplant.
- His recovery is considered rare by his oncologist, Dr. Aaron C. Logan, citing the speed and extent of his progress after severe complications.
- Papa will begin as a studio analyst for NBC Sports Bay Area before the 49ers' season opener.
- He faced life-threatening issues including pneumonia, collapsed lungs, and blood clots following the transplant.
- Papa's detail-oriented nature, honed by his meticulous broadcasting preparation, has aided his understanding and adherence to his complex medical regimen.
- Despite ongoing challenges like potential heart and lung issues and easy windedness, Papa is optimistic about his return to broadcasting.
- A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Greg Papa during his recovery period.