Texans Safety Andre Hal Is Bigger Than His Cancer Diagnosis, And Football

I got the news today of Andre Hal’s diagnoses of Hodgkins Lymphoma, and like many of you—my heart hurt for him and his family. Hal was a seventh round pick for the Houston Texans in head coach Bill O’Brien’s first draft with the team, back in 2014. Drafted as a cornerback, Hal was moved over to starting safety in 2015. Before the 2017 season he was rewarded with a second contract  — three years, $15 million, $7 million guaranteed —  a contract that kicks in this season.  As I continued to read the news and see his reaction, and the reaction of his teammates on social media you could literally feel the amazing support system around him.

It’s times like this that really help us put things in perspective.  At the end of the day Andre Hal is bigger than this diagnosis, and bigger than the game of football. What I mean by that is his life is so much bigger than this game, and his strength along with the support and prayers of his family, friends and fans will see Andre through this diagnosis and on to recovery.  Like his family, friends and teammates are saying, he’s going to beat this thing and be back on the field before you know it.

It was awesome to see Andre’s statement on Twitter

Houston Texans S Andre Hal has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.#HopeAndLove

Full press release: https://t.co/k6oO4jVHqQ pic.twitter.com/d9AQiCwIA1

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) June 8, 2018

We’re all saddened by the diagnosis, but  there’s a perspective on life earned that is invaluable.  It’s something very unique that a person can only truly comprehend when you have faced a setback like this. Each day, each breath we take is a gift from God.

If you follow the social media reactions you’ll find this amazing outpouring of love and support.

First from the McNair family:

 

Statement from The McNair Family: pic.twitter.com/QxHicXvmsO

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) June 8, 2018

Then from Texans head coach Bill O’Brien:

 

Statement from Houston Texans Head Coach Bill O’Brien: pic.twitter.com/gqZYXzWqJi

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) June 8, 2018

Bill O’Brien then appeared on AM 610 sports radio show “The Triple Threat“, and shared more of his feelings for Andre.

When I was going through a personal tragedy my wife would recite one particular verse to me almost daily.  I’d like to share it with Andre and anyone else who is going through a difficult time in their life.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

2 Corinthians 12:9

From all of us here at TexasHSFootball.com….Andre, you and your family are in our prayers.

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