Chris Spielman is a hero in many people's eyes for numerous reasons from petty to legitimate. Number 36 was a legendary linebacker at The Ohio State University in the 80's. Football is king in central Ohio and Mr. Spielman is royalty. He is passionate about the sport and makes no excuses for it.
But he is not only admired for his superior athletic ability but his dedication to his wife, Stephanie who recently passed away from cancer. Despite his passion for football, he sat out a year to be with his wife when she was first diagnosed. He and Stephanie demonstrated tremendous strength and perseverance as they fought her battle together.
Currently he hosts a sports radio show on 97.1 FM The Fan in Columbus. During a recent show he talked about the competitive rivalry between he and his brother, Rick who is the Vice President of Player Personnel for the Minnesota Vikings. Whether it was on the football field or seeing who could hold their breathe under water longer, they competed over everything and hated to lose.
During the wake for his wife, who is a local celebrity as a result of their public efforts to fight cancer and raise money, awareness and support, his brother stood by him. He literally stood next to him for seven hours greeting those who came to pay their respects.
Chris seemed to get emotional on the air as he told this story. Anyone with a heart would understand. As the two of them stood there hour after tedious hour, his brother refused to sit down. Chris even told him he could have a seat and relax, but Rick would not sit down if Chris wouldn't sit down. He wasn't going to give in.
This story of their undying competitive nature is rather humorous in its own way but we can see the meaning behind it. I was touched as I listened. Beyond the competition, his brother was there for him.
Both Chris and Rick are physically strong human beings who would win most fights. If you needed someone to protect you, they would be prime people to have on your side.
But I have more admiration for the deeper strength they demonstrated. Rick exemplified it through his support for his brother. Chris showed it through his paramount dedication to his wife. He put aside his passion to be with her. He took on a tremendous amount of responsibility as a father, spouse and caregiver to a sick loved one.
Granted I am biased because I have never been a tough guy. But I get tired of seeing more respect paid to the big guys for being big when there are countless other people who are more courageous and strong for what they do....like standing by their brother at a wake.
Funny, that I use a stereotypical tough guy to demonstrate this point. Almost ironic?
I would like to think I am the brother that would stand there for seven hours. Or the husband that would take on the parenting in addition to supporting the endless chemo treatments and other necessary care giving that is involved with a sick loved one.
I have admired Mr. Spielman partly because I am a Buckeye. But I that doesn't hold a light to how much I respect him because of these other characteristics.
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