A SUPERSTAR IN EVERY WAY!

This morning I read an article in my local newspaper, the Minneapolis Star Tribune about an exceptional person, who just happens to be an NFL superstar.  There is no doubt that Larry Fitzgerald, who plays for the Arizona Cardinals as a wide receiver, will one day be a member of the Football Hall of Fame.  But far more important than that, as many of us have known for a long time, he’s dedicated to improving the lives of people around the world in countless ways. Yes, he donates a great deal of money to multiple charitable endeavors, but he also travels the world, visiting over 80 countries on six continents making life better for people in need.  He has helped fit children with hearing aids, dug wells and irrigation systems, and been an NFL spokesman for breast cancer awareness. He has helped tornado victims in Minneapolis, paid for underprivileged kids to participate in football camps, and provided supplies for them that they could not otherwise afford. His mother, who was a strong influence on him, worked for the Minnesota Department of Health and was also actively involved in combating breast cancer and HIV/AIDS. She died of breast cancer in 2003, but remains an exceptional inspiration to her son because of her compassion and willingness to give of herself. 

Larry Fitzgerald knows that he can make a difference with kids because they look up to him as a role model.  He wants kids to have some of the same opportunities that he did growing up in Minneapolis, and he’s tremendously giving of his time and resources.

He was invited by former President Clinton on a mission trip to Uganda last July. He knows that people everywhere look up to him, and like his mother, he has lived by example. He has also gained a worldly perspective and humility by witnessing the simple joys and appreciation of life by those in far less developed countries. 

At age 29, Larry Fitzgerald is an exemplary man who plans to continue to travel around the world to make a difference in whatever way he can.  No matter what team you support, he’s a superstar representing all of us.