Severely Ailing QB Gets Support From ‘Gipper’

DENVER —  Colorado quarterback Sal Aunese, who is battling inoperable stomach and lung cancer, has received a supportive phone call from former President Ronald Reagan.

Aunese was readmitted to University Hospital on Sunday because of a buildup of fluid in his lungs. Tuesday night, he received a pep talk from Reagan, a former sportscaster who portrayed Notre Dame back George Gipp on film.

Reagan “wished Sal well. They talked about five minutes. It was a nice gesture on his (Reagan’s) part,” hospital spokesman Brad Bawmann said. He said Aunese “was really delighted.”

Aunese, who had a tube inserted in his chest to allow drainage of the fluid from his lungs, was in fair condition. Doctors said he probably will remain hospitalized until the weekend.