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Pele, Family Share Messages for Fans Amid Report About Dwindling Health

As a Brazilian newspaper reported that Pelé was entering palliative care, and a hotel in Qatar sent him a public get well message, the soccer legend posted a message on social media to share updates on his health.

“Friends, I am at the hospital making my monthly visit. It's always nice to receive positive messages like this,” he wrote. “Thanks to Qatar for this tribute, and to everyone who sends me good vibes!”

Folha de São Paulo reported on Saturday that Pelé was “no longer responding to treatment” and was beginning to enter palliative care.

One Wednesday, Pelé’s daughter Kely Nascimento confirmed that her father was hospitalized as he continues to fight colon cancer, but she said there was “no emergency” yet over his health in a post this week.

“Lots of alarm in the media today concerning my dad’s health. He is in the hospital regulating medication,” she wrote. “Some of my siblings are visiting Brazil. There is no emergency or new dire prediction. I will be there for New Years and promise to post some pictures. Really and truly, we appreciate the concern and love!!”

The 82 year-old and legendary Brazilian forward holds multiple records for both the country and the world in international competition.