I recently hired Chicago Bears Hall of Famer Gale Sayers for a speaking engagement and was reminded of Brian’s Song, one of the most touching movies ever made and something that many people are reminded of when they think of Gale.

The 1971 made-for-television movie told the story of Sayers friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo, a relationship that shattered racial boundaries during a time of racial tension. Piccolo played four seasons with the Bears and, in 1969, began coughing early in the season. On November 16 in Atlanta, after scoring a fourth-quarter touchdown in a 48-31 loss to the Falcons, Piccolo removed himself from the plane, bothered by a persistent cough and chest pains.

Two days later, a chest x-ray discovered a tumor in his lungs. He underwent surgery to remove the malignant tumor on November 28, at which time the doctor discovered the cancer had spread. Piccolo began chemotherapy treatments and spent Christmas at home. In April of 1970 his left lung and left breast were removed. ... Read More