ST. LOUIS - Don Patterson is anxious to get back to the sideline and coach his Western Illinois football team. Patterson acknowledged Tuesday at the Missouri Valley Football Conference Media Day that another battle must come first.

"I can reassure all of you this is a very survivable cancer," said Patterson, his usually booming voice only a bit quieter than usual. "I'll get the best care anywhere. There is no doubt I will get to coach a long time after this year."

Patterson has been diagnosed with tonsillar cancer and will soon begin a seven-week leave of absence from his job as Leathernecks' coach to undergo therapy. He will miss Western's preseason training camp and an undetermined number of regular season games.

"If you want to find out if you have any friends, get sick and you'll find out," said the 57-year-old Patterson. "I've got a lot of friends in this room."

Assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Mark Hendrickson will serve as acting head coach.

"Personally, it's hit me pretty hard," Western linebacker Jason Williams said. "Coach Patterson is part of why I came to Western in the first place."

Valley commissioner Patty Viverito called Patterson's Media Day appearance "inspirational."

"This is more evidence of his dedication to his team," Viverito said. "We hope he has a speedy recovery and is back on the sideline as quickly as possible."