I learned my dad has cancer on October 2.

He fell and broke his femur doing yard work which led to further testing and a diagnosis of multiple myeloma ... an uncommon form of cancer that develops when a type of white blood cell (plasma cell), multiplies abnormally and builds up in the bone marrow.

Growing up, my dad worked 80-100 hours a week.  He always showed up for school functions and games, gave me a ride to practice, and somehow 'geniusly' turned a radiator replacement project into a monthlong adventure.  He always showed us love by making time. 

I will always be grateful to Oberlin, John Pont and the coaching staff, and our players for allowing me to do the same this fall. 

My family is at the beginning of our battle, but I am optimistic in many ways because of our team:

For every day of the last four years, I've had the blessing to be surrounded by people who will - and have already - changed the world.  Senior Ethan Price worked on a Cleveland-based cancer research team this January that advanced our current knowlege for treatment. 

I am inspired by our guys for their intelligence and work ethic, and even more so moved by their hearts.

In 2021, we began an annual fundraiser for Go4TheGoal which funds local hospital programs and research, provides direct financial aid to families, and grants wishes to patients. In these past three years, Oberlin Football players have raised more than $20,000 which impacts families in Northeast Ohio.

One year, my dad locked his keys in his truck when we went shopping for gifts for our annual Salvation Army angel tree gifts and it was the best comedy of errors.  I remember two things clearly: 1. we spent the entire day together on all forms of transportation, and 2. it was in service of others, a value my parents both deeply planted in my heart. 

Football gives us a platform to show this love for others. Please consider a gift in honor of both my families.