Tony Dungy Shows Us: Not all Sports Figures Are BAD Role Models

Dylan is a 3-year-old boy who has cancer and has been undergoing chemotherapy for several weeks now. This story is about Tony Dungy and his staff visiting the hospital where Dylan is at, and also a recount of the event from Dylan's mother.

Just when it seems that one shouldn't have a sports figure as your role model, you find a story like the one below. I am involved with the family listed in the story through some Chaplain work I do with a Christian University. And please don't let Dylan's story go unnoticed in the hype of a famous person, and I would just bet that if you asked Tony, he would say this story should have Dylan's picture with it and not his. Out of privacy concerns, I'll stick with the picture of Tony and just ask that you keep Dylan in your prayers! And while you are talking with the Lord about Dylan, add Tony Dungy and his family too! Tony had a son commit suicide in late 2005 . He was a great role model then as well, when he showed his Christian faith that is ever so present, and that family is more important than professional football. Thank you Tony for visiting Dylan! I bet you prayed for him today, too. This is from Dylan's mom: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 That is the amazing verse that is on the "Basket of Hope" bear that was just delivered to Dylan this evening. We had the amazing honor of meeting the Indianapolis Colts' Coach Tony Dungy this afternoon. He and his staff delivered these wonderful baskets to the kids on the oncology floor here at Riley. Dylan was not feeling well so we didn't get a picture but it was an awesome moment to be visited by such an inspirational and wonderful man. Dylan's basket had lots of toys, books, DVD's, Colts football & hat and other little inspirational things. They also gave mom a little tote bag with some Max Lucado books (my favorite author) and the Tony Dungy memoir. It really lifted Dylan's and my spirits to get so many nice things and to be visited by Mr. Dungy. That scripture is just what I needed today to remember that it is in God's hands and I need to just keep being hopeful and faithful. Dylan is feeling better today than yesterday but still does not feel very good. He still won't eat. He is still battling fever. They are keeping him comfortable with the Morphine. Thank you again for the hope, love, friendship, encouragement and inspiration. You will never know how touched I have been by every one's AMAZING support. Love & Blessings, Dylan's Mom