Former Chicago Bears linebacker Chris Draft shares words of encouragement at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital’s Cancer Survivorship Celebration
By Rachel Everett, Public Affairs Specialist
Over 100 cancer survivors and their caregivers packed the auditorium to celebrate life at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital’s cancer survivors’ day event Sept. 17.
The occasion honored those who have passed on and provided opportunities for survivors to speak with multidisciplinary care teams about supportive resources and services.
In addition to information tables and raffle prize drawings, attendees enjoyed a catered lunch and listened to remarks by former Chicago Bears linebacker Chris Draft – a staunch national lung cancer advocate.
The 12-year NFL Veteran and Ditka Gridiron Greats – Marv Levy Impact Award recipient is no stranger to the tumultuous cancer journey.
His wife, Keasha, was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer in 2011 and urged him to create a foundation to help those who would outlive her. Together, they co-founded Team Draft, a national campaign that seeks to change the face of lung cancer through awareness, early detection, treatment, research, and survivorship.
“She was intentional about building a team committed to celebrating our survivors and meeting them with love in their journeys,” said Draft.
Since her passing, Draft has chosen to be “authentically happy” for cancer survivors who are doing well and commits to helping those who may be struggling in their cancer journey.
Draft supported lung cancer survivors at the event by presenting them with white ribbons as a part of the White Ribbon Project, a grassroots initiative aimed at reducing the stigma associated with the disease.
U.S. Army Veteran Steven Ross, a Bolingbrook, Illinois native and two-time cancer survivor who attended the event, understands firsthand the importance of reducing the negative stigma around lung cancer.
“Cancer used to be a death sentence, but I’m alive and I’m fighting,” said Ross. “It’s good to be alive.”
Ross, who shared his cancer journey with other Veterans at the event, said his favorite part was the camaraderie with other survivors and learning about their journeys.
“My advice to those dealing with cancer would be to not sweat the small things,” said Ross. “Keep your head up because life is great on the other side.”
Ross’ journey is just one of thousands that Draft is trying to have a positive influence on.
Everyone here has their own story, their own journey,” said Draft. “I chose to celebrate the fact that you are here today.”