| |
Charles Tillman: A True Sports Hero
October 29th, 2013
Sports is about winning on and off the field.
When you see number 33 prowling the green of Chicago’s Soldier Field, you see a competitor, a two-time Pro-Bowl selection, and an overall imposing force. Standing at 6’2”, 200 pounds, he is a rare combination of speed and size that has amassed 830 tackles throughout his career. But behind his daunting presence, there is a man who relishes in giving back to the world. Charles “Peanut” Tillman’s life changed when his second daughter, Tiana, was rushed to the hospital due to a rare heart disorder, dilated cardiomyopathy. At the age of 6 months, her life was saved due to an organ donor. Tiana received a new heart, and a new chance at life.
Peanut created the Charles Tillman Cornerstone Foundation to assist families and children in need. On Monday, October 14th, Tillman teamed up with the Chicago Bears and The Montgomery Club to host Celebrity Waiter Night. Peanut and his teammates volunteered to serve as waiters for the night’s festivities. The crowd not only enjoyed meeting the players, but also tried their luck bidding on silent auction items at the new Montgomery Club. The Club is owned and managed by Gibson’s Restaurant Group, a distinguished restaurant group in Chicago. Attendees raved about the meal, which included a steak dinner.
Rose Horcher, Vice President of Client Services at Choose Chicago, attended the fundraiser. She had the opportunity to speak with Peanut and described him as, “… a true gem. He is tough on the field and a gentleman off of it. He has compassion for those less fortunate, especially children, and he is acutely aware of the many blessings life has bestowed upon him. As he mentioned to the crowd that evening, ‘to whom much is given, much is expected.’”
Charles “Peanut” Tillman and Rose Horcher
Rose’s comments are just one sign that Charles “Peanut” Tillman was meant to be a true leader for all ages, on and off the field. He is a wonderful teammate, father, and overall human being. More people should take a stand for what they believe in.
As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” People can support themselves and make a living by earning money and gaining possessions, but buying your happiness is no comparison to the happiness that comes from helping others, and making a positive change. Life is more worthwhile when you give back to the world—just ask Peanut Tillman.
|
|
| |