Pagano's visit lifts Colts' spirits

INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Chuck Pagano, cancer-stricken coach of the Indianapolis Colts, surprised the team's coaches and players with a visit that gave them all a "lift," players said.

His Monday visit to the team's complex was Pagano's first since being hospitalized Sept. 26 after being diagnosed with leukemia, the Indianapolis Star reported.

Interim coach Bruce Arians said as word got out that Pagano was in the building, a number of players stopped by to see him.

"You can't imagine the lift [the visit] gave us," Arians said.

Pagano was released from the hospital Oct. 21 and was wearing a surgical mask during the visit.

He's scheduled for a second round of chemotherapy next week.

The coach's diagnosis has not affected the Colts' abilities on the field. They beat Tennessee 19-13 in overtime Sunday, making them 4-3 in the AFC. They play the Miami Dolphins Sunday at home.

Despite Pagano's absence, Arians said the team's success is the "feel good story" of the league.

"Hopefully we can keep stringing [wins] together," he said.