David Hess declared himself cancer free on Jan. 20, 2022, posting on social media that he was “cured” and cleared to resume baseball activities. He could pitch again. Immerse himself in one of his passions.

The disease doesn’t choose favorites. It came back to Hess after he appeared in eight minor league games last season in the Rays’ system. And it’s worse.

Hess has been open about his battle, sharing details and the strength of his faith in various posts. He used his Instagram account Friday to provide the latest update, and it’s heartbreaking.

In true Hess form, however, it’s also brave and inspirational.

Here is the text in full:

Adley Rutschman launched a 3-0 pitch from Jon Gray onto the flag count in the bottom of the first inning to give the Orioles a quick lead. Cedric Mullins made a leaping catch to rob Josh Jung of a home run to begin the top of the second, prompting rookie Grayson Rodriguez to raise a fist in the air, and then his cap.

This is the exact kind of start that the team wanted after returning home from an exhilarating road trip. Hoping that it would escalate and allow them to coast instead of slipping into crisis mode.

And then, of course, Rodriguez surrenders a two-run homer to Leody Taveras with two outs in the second inning and the Orioles are forced into chasing their 20^th comeback win. They live in an unusual comfort zone.

The Rangers turned it into a miserable spot, refusing to stay within reach and to play along.

The final images of Rodriguez include how he placed a hand on his hip and stared at the outfield as Corey Seager rounded the bases after hitting a grand slam in an eight-run fourth inning. And how he shouted into his glove after entering the dugout.