Eric Berry is the epitome of the human spirit

One day, you will tell the story of Eric Berry. Long after his greatness on the football field has gone into the history books, you will speak of Berry to others. The beginning will have to do with football, the middle and ending will slide into the man he has become.

Berry’s life was in jeopardy only a few months ago as he went through chemo therapy. The Kansas City Chiefs strong safety was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma in December, putting his career and life in great peril. Only eight months later, Berry has returned. His impact on the field will be great. His impact off it will be far greater.

That picture sums up everything you need to know about Eric Berry. There is a beautiful young girl trying to get through the fight of her life. She came out to practice, enduring the heat, and she came with a sign. It is not made out of cardboard, but hope. She was inspired by Berry, who’s fight has not only inspired a team but a nation. Berry overcame the monster known as cancer, and now others will with the knowledge that one of their heroes has done it.

If all of that is not enough, read this piece by Sam Mellinger of the Kansas City Star. Berry’s attitude and inspiration is deep and profound.

Kansas City has plenty of great players and great people. Derrick Johnson and Alex Smith are incredibly involved in the community, donating time and money to help various causes. Tamba Hali has been tremendously involved in curing the Ebola virus, donating money to build treatment facilities in Africa. Yet, Berry stands out because of his unwavering courage through a fight we all pray we never have to face.

Berry continues to be amazing on a day-to-day basis. He beat cancer. He inspires others that they can beat it too.

Could it possible to be prouder of a young man? Doubtful.