May 19, 2008
Let me start by saying witnessing the dedication on men and women devoting their time and resources to help another in need can't help but motivate, inspire and humble you. In confession, over the many years I have memorialized Kyle Woods's story and his tragedy in my heart but in others it was a tireless dedication in making a difference for him in raising funds for his living and special needs. You see, those who I am speaking of day in and day out continue the quest to assist Kyle and are the character of those I want to be most like. Character, dedication and perseverance are just words used by most but for these leaders they are a credo that is contagious and much needed in today's world. I can with complete humility say I strive to be even a small percentage of what they stand for.
I was told by a teammate and friend, Frank Ditta, of the dedication of Kyle Woods' new home in Cedar Hill on Sunday May 18. I joined Frank to wish Kyle well and see his beautiful new home but what I didn't know was I was the one that would come home with a blessing for having attended. The event was hosted by our college coach Grant Teaff and his wife Donell, Professor Dyson, and special men I had the opportunity to have played with such as Scott Smith, Robert Holt and Walter Abercrombie among other players and friends.
This was the dedication of a new home Kyle received that has been specially designed to assist in his disability after a catastrophic neck injury while playing football at Baylor University that left him in a wheelchair. Most of us that were on the field that day remember it because it sounded like a gunshot when the injury happened. I remember the feeling all of us had as the medics worked hard to carefully prepare Kyle for transportation while Scott Smith lay motionless for an hour as they separated the two while on the ground. Many have tried to forget that day but what makes this so special is not everyone did and this beautiful new home and all the aid and support is the result.
As I walk around I felt an anointing on Kyle's home and those who worked so hard to complete this project for Kyle. An anointing of the character of the men and women involved in this event and their efforts were just amassing to have spanned over 28 years. The efforts of these people are why I am writing this short note to the Baylor family and others who strive to become better as a person.
Why I was blessed is being around such dedication, perseverance and sacrifice of those who would not give up until the mission was completed. These are lessons and gifts that are not something you can hold or put in your pocket but rather witness and receive. I take away from this event a blessing of knowing people like those who worked so hard and dedicated so much time, men and women who inspire us and who lead by example.
Troy Cooper Baylor (79 - 83)
