My Hero

When I think of the word hero, I think of a brave, strong, admired, courageous individual. A hero is someone who puts others first and does not need any recognition for it. On March 27, 2013, I had the pleasure and honor of meeting Katelyn Norman, a 14 year old beautiful young girl who has battled osteosarcoma bone cancer for two years. From the moment I met Katelyn as she laid there in her hospital bed, not once did she show any signs of pity or negative attitude. I could not believe how a young girl could remain so strong after all that she has been through. The room was full of good spirits and had a peaceful calm feeling to it. We talked, laughed, prayed and hugged each other. And when I was feeling more down then she was all she could say was how she loved Elvis lol. As a football player you are asked to do many things on a daily basis. Most of them are challenging and requires a lot  of mental toughness to not give up and quit. You can be sucked into your own world easily and forget about those who are less fortunate than we are, and are going through tough times in their lives. You also don't realize the affect you can have on others by simply taking time out to talk them for just a short period of time. Katelyn taught me to never take any day for granted. She stared cancer right in the face and didn't back down from it. Her story has touched many of people across the world and will inspire all of us to go after our dreams and help others. Today, March 29, 2013 katelyn Norman received her angel wings and flew home to heaven. I will never forget those pretty eyes that looked at me with joy and the smile that made my day. I am PROUD and HONORED to call Katelyn Norman my HERO and I will carry her with me everyday as she watches down on all of us. My love and prayers are with the Norman family and all those who knew Katelyn or was touched by Katelyn's story.