I Need a Hero

When I found out about my brain tumor, I immediately knew who would be my role model through the coming surgery, treatment and rehab. As a huge sports fan, specifically football, more specifically, as a Kansas City Chiefs super fan, there was no question that 2015 NFL Comeback Player of the year, Chiefs’ Safety, Eric Berry was the only choice for me.

Eric is not only one of the top defensive players in the NFL, he is also a cancer survivor. Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2014, through the offseason he did treatment and was declared cancer free. It was reported that on the very day of his last chemotherapy, he was practicing with the Chiefs. How can one NOT admire a man with such strength? If he could play at the level he plays, then I could give my all and make it through, too.

Now, there is certainly a distinct difference in Lymphoma and brain cancer, but when you’re in the middle of it, cancer is cancer. I hung Eric’s #29 Chiefs jersey in my hospital room and looked at it on every one of the 27 days I spent in inpatient rehab. It’s symbolism served as motivation and a reminder that I had to be stronger than I had ever been. I need to remember that today.

Even over a year later, I still need a hero to remind me of the mountains climbed and progress made, to give me the strength to keep working, to inspire. The lasting effects of my brain tumor surgery are a physical challenge so don’t expect me to be playing football any time soon, but I do keep my eye on #29 and know that his similar journey continues to help me through the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.