Arnie to undergo surgery today

Wednesday, Jan. 15, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

The 67-year-old golf star, who checked into the Mayo Clinic on Monday, was scheduled to have surgery today.

After his release from the hospital, he will remain in remain in Rochester as an outpatient, the clinic said.

Doc Giffin, Palmer's spokesman, said Palmer was prepared for the surgery.

"I think he's ready," Giffin said. "He sounds like he's doing well. He's anxious to get on with it."

Palmer learned Friday he has prostate cancer.

Doctors said Monday they were encouraged by initial test results, and Palmer met again with them Tuesday to determine treatment.

Giffin said Palmer's reason for optimism stemmed from the early detection of the cancer.

Prostate cancer usually is a slow-developing disease that can be successfully treated if detected early.

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