Dwyane Wade has been more than just a husband to Gabrielle Union—he has been her rock. Through the highs and lows, he has stood by her side, offering strength and understanding. But when past trauma resurfaced, Wade’s unwavering support became even more crucial.

Union has long been open about the painful experience that shaped her life. Decades ago, she endured a horrific assault, an event that left deep emotional scars. Moreover, while working on Truth Be Told, the memories came rushing back. The show’s storyline, which focused on the exploitation of young Black and Brown girls, hit close to home. Filming in the same courthouse where she once testified became overwhelming. “Something in me just broke. Completely broke.”

Despite years of healing, she realized trauma still controlled parts of her life. “I’m a very controlled person, and I was going home every day crying to my husband.” Wade, who was initially caught off guard, became her anchor. He listened, comforted, and reassured her in ways she didn’t expect. “There are just a lot of days when I have 10%, and I need him to be 90,” she admitted.

Letting go of control wasn’t easy. Even financial dependence triggered anxiety, but Wade encouraged her to take small steps toward trust. “Now, did I settle on about 35% of the mortgage instead of 50? Sure. But you know—I’m trying.” More than money, it was about vulnerability. “I’m okay as his wife. I’m okay in this home. I deserve it.”

Through love and patience, Wade helped Union see that healing isn’t about control—it’s about feeling safe in the presence of those who truly care. Luckily for the couple, the emotions and support go both ways.

Dwyane Wade overcomes health struggles

Gabrielle Union recently opened up about a difficult chapter in her marriage to Dwyane Wade. “It was year nine of our marriage and … year nine was very hard,” she shared on Today with Jenna & Friends. At the time, Wade had not publicly discussed his health struggles, but Union later revealed that his cancer diagnosis had been a major challenge. CBS later confirmed that doctors had found a tumor on Wade’s right kidney, leading to surgery in December 2023. The procedure removed 40% of his kidney, but the real victory was in his recovery. Despite the frightening diagnosis, Wade remained positive, leaning on his family for support.

So, how is Wade doing now? Union provided an update on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, saying, “Good now.” She even joked that his health was evident—“shirt off, you know, so that’s how you know he’s great.” Wade himself reinforced this, recently posting a shirtless picture on Instagram, showing fans he was back in shape and feeling like himself.

However, Union also admitted that Wade wasn’t always open about his journey. “He was a little more hesitant to take us on that journey,” she shared. But with the unwavering support of his family, he found the strength to navigate the challenge. “My smile has never faded!” Wade wrote, expressing his gratitude.

Interestingly, Wade’s diagnosis came as a complete surprise. He initially visited the doctor for minor concerns and had no idea his kidneys were at risk. “I didn’t go in for my kidneys,” he admitted. But a full-body scan revealed a hidden danger. The decision to undergo surgery turned out to be life-saving. “Thank God that I did do the surgery, right?” he said. The procedure confirmed that the tumor was cancerous, but removing it ensured a healthy future. Now, with a clean bill of health, Wade is embracing life again, proving that resilience and support can make all the difference.