Playing football at Michigan and a freak diagnosis were not all we had in common. We both happened to have three kids, the oldest being a boy, followed by two daughters. I could not help but feel connected with him.
During the one and only conversation we had he stated that this was a battle he was not going to win. I really had a hard time hearing that. It's a reality with those taking on cancer...He knew his fate.
Last week Vada Murray passed away. Today as I attempted to give tribute to him and his family at UM's Relay for Life I broke out in tears for a man I hardly even know, but feel so close to. It hurts to think about his family right now.
My speech was focused on the Fight Back theme of Relay for Life. It was very fitting. Thinking of Vada makes me want to Fight Back. I have always just wanted to dominate, but now I also want to fight back for him and his family. I don't have a lot of words right now for what that means, just tons of emotion probably centered on feelings of injustice for what his family is having to go through.
For all those who can make it, there will be a memorial service this Thursday at 11:00am at Cliff Keen Arena.
3 comments:
I can see why this hurts...lovely family and huge loss. So sorry. All the more reason to fight for cures.
I completely get it... and feel sad for his family and friends losing him at such a young age - it doesn't make any sense and the pain of loss radiates out to the many people I am sure he touched, you included.
My deepest condolences.
He was an Ann Arbor cop, wasn't he? Gave up on going to the NFL to serve the community. Pretty sure my dad taught him how to swim too!
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