Former University of Washington football player Daniel Milsten is “fighting” for more time after being diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Milsten, 42, has been diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer and neuroendocrine metastatic carcinoma, according to a GoFundMe launched in his honor.
Neuroendocrine metastatic carcinoma is “an aggressive, malignant, and often terminal stage of disease,” according to the Cleveland Clinic. Individuals diagnosed with the disease have an average survival period of 11 to 12 months.
“This has come on so fast and so aggressively that we are just praying for options to prolong his life at this point,” the GoFundMe reads, which was organized by Milsten’s former University of Washington teammate Jordan Reffett.
Milsten and his wife, Rebekah, share two sons: Cooper, 8, and Jax, 6.
“Please help me and the rest of Husky Nation show support for Daniel and his amazing family right now by giving as generously as you can,” the GoFundMe says. “We are asking for help in this very dark time to make sure Daniel’s wife and two young sons (6 & 8 years old) have some peace of mind during this extremely shocking and difficult time and for the challenging days ahead.”
The fundraiser says Milsten “made an impact in so many people’s lives on and off the football field.”
“He is cherished by so many, and I ask that we all come together and fight for Dan and his family by donating,” the GoFundMe continues. “Which I know he would have fought for any of us if the shoe was on the other foot…… Love you, brother.”
The fundraiser had made over $43,000 at the time of this story’s publication. The GoFundMe is ultimately hoping to raise $100,000.
A native of Tacoma, Washington, Milsten played four games at nose tackle for the Huskies during the 2004 season.
A group of Milsten’s former teammates showed up to offer their support in the hospital, as shown in photos shared on the GoFundMe.
Milsten had transitioned to a career in real estate after his football playing days, which he often posted about on social media.
“It’s a privilege to help people navigate the process of selling their home,” he shared via Instagram in 2023, adding, “Nothing makes me happier.”
Milsten last posted on social media in September 2025, in celebration of his wife’s birthday.
“Happy Birthday Rebekah! Love you!” he wrote alongside a carousel of photos of himself, Rebekah and their two sons.
