At the celebration that took place after the winning shot, the video shows Valvano running all over the court looking for someone to hug. It has been shown hundreds of times, demonstrating the joy of winning. Valvano was probably better known for his reaction than for actually winning the game.
That was going to be his legacy until he was got cancer. In June 1992, Valvano was diagnosed with metastatic adenocarcinoma, a type of glandular cancer that can spread to the bones. He fought bravely, but cancer was winning the battle. On March 4, 1993, he received the Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award at the first ESPY award show put on by ESPN. During that show, he gave the speech of his life.
He stressed living life versus just living, and promised to live his life to the fullest as long as he could. Sadly, he died less than two months later.
Every year when it is shown at the ESPYs, I make sure I listen to every word and make it a part of my life. Jim’s plea, “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up”, has been something I have held close to my heart through this 16-year battle with my own cancer and the loss of my kidneys. I have had a number of people say to me, “How have you gotten through all of this?” It’s pretty simple. I had faith in my doctors and had a burning desire to win. I’ve been lucky that the chemotherapies have kept me going through it all, and I am proud to say that I am as healthy as I have been throughout this journey.
After my last surgery of having the ureter reattached, I have run into more than a few roadblocks. I was only home for a few days when I spiked a fever and had to be taken to the emergency room and eventually readmitted. I was allowed to go home after several days but still could not rid myself of kidney infections. It was one after another. I was living on antibiotics. They tried at least four different types but nothing would completely take care of the problem. Then, finally two weeks ago, I received a great blood test that showed no infection. In addition, my hemoglobin was the highest it has been in over four years, actually in the normal range. I had another blood test today with similar results.
Back in my school days, I was always told it isn’t a trend until you have three data points. I am hoping to see that again in two weeks. Just know, I will never give up.
