Twins' legend Harmon Killebrew has been battling esophageal cancer for quite some time, but it appears that battle is coming to an end. . .and not in the way that anyone would have hoped.
According to a statement released by Killebrew through the team, Harmon has been checked into hospice care, which is centered around simply making the patient comfortable during their final days.
The statement released by the Killebrew family reads as follows:
"It is with profound sadness that I share with you that my continued battle with esophageal cancer is coming to an end. With the continued love and support of my wife, Nita, I have exhausted all options with respect to controlling this awful disease. My illness has progressed beyond my doctors' expectation of cure.
I have spent the past decade of my life promoting hospice care and educating people on its benefits. I am very comfortable taking this next step and experiencing the compassionate care that hospice provides.
I am comforted by the fact that I am surrounded by my family and friends. I thank you for the outpouring of concern, prayers and encouragement that you have shown me. I look forward to spending my final days in comfort and peace with Nita by my side."
All of us at SB Nation Minnesota and throughout Twins Territory would like to express our sincerest and deepest condolences to Harmon's wife, Nita, and the rest of the Killebrew family during their time of need. Hopefully the legendary slugger's last days will be pain-free, and that he will be surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones.