Ulcerative Colitis

Dickson suffered a heart attack just before the 2003-04 season but was coaching the Bearcats again within two weeks.

All of his health issues have made Dickson stronger and more aware.

He's not sure he is cancer-free, but he thinks he's got it beat for now.

"I asked my doctor the last time I saw him, and I asked, 'What about this two to five years to live?

' " Dickson said.

"He said, 'I think we're more like 20 years.' And, I said, 'Can we go with 25?

' I'm more comfortable with that.' "So, I don't know if I'd call it cancer-free.

But I felt like I was healed, and I wanted to show it by coming back." At this time last year, Dickson was dealing with myriad emotions.

During the district and state tournaments, he faced his cancer diagnosis, the suspension of center Kirsten Thompson for perceived dirty play and the death of his brother-in-law.

Dickson considered him his best friend.

Dickson is a changed man in many ways because of that roller-coaster 2004-05 season.

"I can't jump as high or run as fast, but other than that, I feel better than I ever have," he said.

Saturday will mark the one-year anniversary of Dickson's cancer diagnosis.

"He's taught us to stay strong no matter what happens," said Sarah Morton, Monroe's highly recruited point guard, who was lost for the season Jan.

27 because of a knee injury.

"He's showed us that staying positive has helped him overcome this.

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