Deshaun Watson, Clemson quarterback, 2015 Heisman Trophy Nominee, #1 College QB in the country and College Football National Champion. Watson, who was introduced to Jessie Rees Foundation at Elite 11 in 2014 has not only made a point to help Courageous Kids Never Ever Give Up, but wears his NEGU Bracelet everyday.
Deshaun is an amazing athlete on the field but it is his heart off the field that truly is incredible to us. Watson’s mother, Deann was diagnosed with tongue cancer while Watson was in high school. He told Campus Insiders “It was tongue cancer. She thought she had strep throat for a long period of time. She went to get it check out and was diagnosed. It was very hard at first. We didn’t know what to expect…..It took a whole year for us to really understand … ever since it’s been pretty good. She’s cancer free and living life to the fullest. Now her speech is good. She’s back to normal, and I wanna thank the doctor who did her surgery.”
Deshaun knows first hand that Jessie’s motto to NEVER EVER GIVE UP is truly impactful because of his mother, now a cancer survivor; so teaming up to meet and support Courageous Kids fighting cancer alongside the Jessie Rees Foundation has impacted him on a greater level.
First meeting Courageous Kids at Elite 11 in 2014 sent Watson on a mission his senior year, one that he recognizes each game he plays for the Tigers. “One of the greatest relationships we have was started when we brought a kid to meet Deshaun, who was an Elite 11 quarterback that first year,” said Rees. “Then he goes home and he dedicates his senior year to these kids and now he’s at Clemson doing the same thing. He was back at Elite 11 as a coach and sharing our message constantly. He takes it on himself. You have a choice every day to use your life for good. And Deshaun has done that.”
Watson, who attended the 2016 NEGU Gala: A Celebration of Courageous Smiles has hosted many Courageous Kids fighting cancer at football games at Clemson University and stands as a NEGU AllStar who truly lives with compassion and heart for kids fighting cancer in a big way!
We are so proud of Deshaun Watson for supporting Jessie’s wish to encourage kids fighting cancer to NEVER EVER GIVE UP! We wish you all the best in the 2017 NFL Draft!!!
CONGRATULATIONS & THANK YOU DeShaun for encouraging kids fighting cancer to NEVER EVER GIVE UP!!!