A few years back we lost a family member to what Sean Connery once referred to as the plague of the 20th Century. If you've ever lost someone to Cancer you'll most likely agree with his sentiment. For myself I can honestly say that each week the memory of Adam's strength his last few days bolsters my courage and resolve to be a better human being. There are moments, like now, when just thinking about that time brings me instantly to tears. I'm proud of this because he was an extraordinary man.
In 1983 the North Carolina State Wolfpack won the NCAA mens basketball tournament and were crowned national champions. They were coached and led James Thomas Anthony Valvano. It's one of the greater sports moments of that era. NC State defeated a very heavily favored University of Houston team. Houston wasn't just favored though. They were bigger, faster, stronger, yadda, yadda, yadda. If this game were to be played 9 more times Houston would have mopped the floor with NC State. But not that day.
Ten years later Coach Jimmy V lost his battle with Cancer at the age of 47. Three months before doing so, he was awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award. While accepting this (inaugural) award he gave one of the more inspirational speaches I have ever heard. This week the folks at ESPN will give honor to Jimmy V and remember him in there programing and below is his acceptance speach in its entirety.
Thank you Adam for sharing your faith and your strength with a loser that had the good fortune to fall in love with your daughter. I miss you...
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