Josh Cobler (pictured above with his family) embodies what the Spirit of Tom Landry Character Award represents. Josh's parents, Keith and Boots, tell the touching story of the bond between their young sons.
"Joshua was 12 years old when his 5-year-old brother Jude was diagnosed with leukemia. He has demonstrated courage, support, and leadership in helping his brother through the disease. From Jude's initial diagnosis to being his bone marrow donor, Joshua has shown immense character and strength beyond his years. As Jude's journey was not an easy one, Joshua remained strong - all the way up to the point of donating his bone marrow to his brother in a selfless gesture that required a surgical procedure. Not once did he complain, but rather welcomed the opportunity to be the one to save his brother's life. During this journey, Joshua's life was turned upside down, staying with friends and relatives while his parents lived at the hospital for four months; and despite the obstacles in from of him, managed to maintain straight A's in all of his subjects. Most impressive was that Joshua did not stop here. He became a vocal and active leader creating awareness for childhood cancer and the importance of becoming a bone marrow donor - especially for minorities and mixed races. As the editor of his school newspaper, Joshua wrote a series of articles that told his personal story putting a face to childhood cancer. Some of these stories were picked up by other organizations as well as forwarded to others dealing with cancer. In addition, Joshua helped start the Sibling Times newsletter that was published by Children's Medical Center to help siblings deal with the cancer experience. To the public at large, Joshua has given speeches about his personal experience... For all of these events, Joshua's message has been one of selflessness and courage, overcoming tremendous odds and demonstrating through his actions that it is better to get involved and make a difference than to do nothing. Moving forward, Joshua plans to continue his efforts as a champion for this cause giving hope to others going through the same experience. In honor of his brother, Joshua plans to become a pediatric oncologist someday, hoping to help children with cancer."
Josh and Jude are photographed with Crawford Brock,
the 2013 Heart of Gold Award Winner.
SAVE THE DATE:
Saint Valentine's Day Luncheon & Fashion Show
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Meyerson Symphony Center
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