(file photo)

Coach Pagano is already into a critical part of his treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia.

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Dr. Michael Dugan, a leukemia expert at St. Francis Health, says lots of issues can develop early on, including clotting problems that can affect the lungs.

That means it is easier to tell how well Pagano's health holds up as he battles leukemia.

Pagano was brought in last Wednesday when he was suffering from bruising and fatigue. He started treatment and testing immediately, but likely won't be back at full strength until next season.