WINNIPEG — The Winnipeg Blue Bombers issued a statement Friday regarding the health of National Scout Craig Smith:

“It is with heavy hearts that the Winnipeg Blue Bombers learned Thursday of National Scout Craig Smith’s diagnosis of Acute Leukemia. Craig begins treatment today, and has our entire organization behind him. Craig has issued the below statement:

“In this very difficult time, the outpouring of support from the Bomber and CFL families has been nothing short of astonishing. The messages from friends and members of the football community have shown that if anything, my wife Cathy and I are surrounded by a network of incredible people giving us strength through their notes and well wishes. We’d like to thank everyone who has already reached out, and I hope to be back on the field soon, stronger than ever. Go Bombers!”