Northern Illinois offensive coordinator Mike Dunbar’s duties have been reassigned so he can continue an ongoing battle with cancer, NIU announced Monday.

Dunbar received the diagnosis not long after coming to NIU in February. He underwent aggressive treatment during the spring and anticipated being fully recovered for the 2012 season. Because of the latest medical update, Dunbar and NIU head coach Dave Doeren decided it was best for Dunbar to make health his top priority.

“Football was never a part of our conversation – this is about Mike Dunbar and what is best for his health,” Doeren said in a news release. “I want his focus and attention to be on battling cancer, not on scoring points. We will do everything we can to support him.”