Ex-Wynne coach has surgery on tumor in colon

The Associated Press
November 18, 2008

Don Campbell, the former Wynne football coach who retired two years ago with 257 victories, is recovering in the hospital after an operation Thursday on a tumor in his colon.

Campbell said Monday night that doctors suspect the tumor was malignant, but he was expecting more test results soon. He said surgery went well and the tumor was removed.

"Everything has looked good. The doctor's been pleased," Campbell said. "As long as he's pleased, I'm pleased."

Campbell retired after the 2006 season. Under his guidance, Wynne earned renown for its simple but effective running game. Carolina Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams played for Campbell and led Wynne to a state championship in 2001.

Campbell said the tumor was about the size of a fist.

"I've got a picture of it," he said. "It's not very pretty."

Campbell's spirits were high, however. He said he's been able to walk, and he's trying to recover his strength.

He's also received plenty of well wishes, including from former Arkansas coach Houston Nutt, who is now at Ole Miss.

"I've had so many people call me - coaches and friends and players and stuff. It's just been overwhelming," Campbell said. "So many people have called and prayed for me."

Campbell said he could face chemotherapy treatment down the road.

"The good Lord's going to take care of me," he said.

Campbell will turn 68 on Thanksgiving.

"I don't know that I'm going to be eating any turkey this year," Campbell said. "I may miss out on that, but, hey, just so I can get out of here."