Former Bear Chris Draft’s Fight Against Lung Cancer and Fulfilling His Wife’s Last Wish
A Love That Transcended Time and Mortality
On Thanksgiving Eve, while most of us are prepping turkeys and finalizing recipes, former Chicago Bears player Chris Draft will spend the day making white ribbons. For him, this day isn’t just his wedding anniversary—it’s a tradition rooted in love and purpose. The ribbons are a symbol of his fight against the disease that claimed his wife, LaKeasha: lung cancer.
A Mission Rooted in Action
In 2017, Draft launched the Super Bowl Challenge, uniting lung cancer survivors to raise funds for research. Survivors represented NFL teams, competing to raise the most money. The winner earned a trip to the Super Bowl, with most of the proceeds going to support lung cancer centers and programs. This effort gave survivors a platform and proved the power of teamwork.
Chris Draft in an American Cancer Society ad (Provided by Chris Draft).
A Call to Recognize Vulnerability
Lung cancer doesn’t discriminate. And though smoking is a major cause, anyone can get it for other reasons. “I’ve heard other people say, ‘Anyone with lungs can get lung cancer,’ said Lillian Eichner, assistant professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. “They’re soft tissue inside your body, except that everything you breathe, no matter where you are, goes directly into your lungs. If you think about it, they’re actually remarkably vulnerable.
A Coordinated Fight
Draft’s mission is simply this: to bring people together, align efforts, and maximize resources. “We’re still going to lose people, but we’ll lose less,” he said. His goal is to ensure that those who can benefit from screenings, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or clinical trials have the support they need. He’s focused on meeting survivors where they are, providing resources, and standing with those who might otherwise feel hopeless.
Chris Draft’s wife, Lakeasha Monique Rutledge Draft (Photo Provided by Draft).
Conclusion
Chris Draft’s fight against lung cancer is a testament to his love and commitment to his wife, LaKeasha. As he continues to make white ribbons and advocate for lung cancer awareness, he reminds us that love and purpose can transcend even death. His work is a call to recognize the vulnerability of those affected by lung cancer and to join him in the fight against this devastating disease.
FAQs
Q: What is the Super Bowl Challenge?
A: The Super Bowl Challenge is an initiative launched by Chris Draft to unite lung cancer survivors to raise funds for research.
Q: What is the purpose of the white ribbons?
A: The white ribbons are a symbol of Chris Draft’s fight against lung cancer and a reminder of his wife’s legacy.
Q: How can I get involved in the fight against lung cancer?
A: You can get involved by spreading awareness about lung cancer, supporting organizations that advocate for lung cancer research, and joining Chris Draft’s mission to bring people together and maximize resources in the fight against lung cancer.
