Daily Sports Smile: John Metchie III thanks hospital workers who treated his cancer
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One of the biggest news stories of the Houston Texans' offseason was that rookie John Metchie III was diagnosed with leukemia. He was ruled out for the 2022 season while he underwent treatment.
Metchie has since completed treatment and to thank his hospital family — the nurses and fellow patients who stood by his side — he hosted them last month at NRG Stadium.
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"It's a unique experience, keeping strong faith and win day by day, brick by brick," he said in a video shared by the Texans. "And honestly, that it's a blessing to be a blessing. I think keeping that in the back of your mind is always a great thing and a great way to keep your spirits up and keep it going."
"Life always deals you a card. It's all about how you respond to it, how you face it."
On Monday, John Metchie III surprised his hospital family with a special evening at NRG Stadium to thank them for their support throughout his cancer treatment. pic.twitter.com/dnppQuuAqi— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) September 30, 2022
The wide receiver, who is now on the reserve/non-football illness list, went around giving hugs to his special guests when they arrived.
"He looks good," one of them said.
"I'm feeling better. I'm getting back to my regular schedule and everything like that, coming in here, training, working out and stuff," Metchie told her as they were walking through the stadium.
Metchie toured the field with Kayla, a fellow patient who he befriended in the hospital. He pushed around her wheelchair as they laughed.
"I drew him a picture and put my phone number on it and I said, 'Hey, if you just wanna talk or need someone to talk to, just call me,'" Kayla said of how they met.
"Kay is such a bright person, which is amazing because she's gone through so many tough things, but she still manages to be the happiest person in the room," Metchie shared.
The former Alabama standout signed autographs and took photos with each member of his newfound family.
"In the hospital, we're all there together, patients and nurses and just everybody that works there," he said. "We're all kinda in that same grind together. They helped me adjust. They helped make me comfortable. They helped take care of me. So, it was cool to really be able to bring them to my field and show them what I do."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texans WR John Metchie III hosts hospital family who supported him through cancer treatment
