That's why I'm here: the Chris & Stefanie Spielman story

Description

Foreword by Madison Spielman -- Introduction -- The question -- The answer -- The bargain -- The comeback -- Growing up -- Who is that girl? -- Tough times on campus -- A season of loss -- The dream begins -- Reaching the dream -- Searching for success -- Finding a new purpose -- Don't blame Macy -- The miracle baby -- Making things right -- I can't spell "tennis" -- You can do it -- No doom and gloom -- The blessing of discomfort -- Celebrating life -- Tell me like the doctor told you -- Pink roses and precious memories -- Words of wisdom -- An outpouring of love -- That's why I'm here -- The new normal -- Epilogue -- Afterword by Charles L. Shapiro, M.D.;Chris Spielman was a high school and Ohio State football legend and a four-time Pro Bowl NFL linebacker, but he didn't tackle his toughest opponent until his professional playing career was almost over. In 1998, his wife, Stefanie, was diagnosed with breast cancer, and so began a 12-year journey that brought joy and suffering to the Spielmans, as well as hope and inspiration to thousands of others. In That's Why I'm Here, Spielman traces his storied career, recalls his courtship of Stefanie Belcher, cherishes the growth of their four children, and invokes the deep spiritual faith that gave their family wisdom and comfort in times of struggle. Though there are plenty of on-the-field tales in the book, it's not just for football fans. It's for people whose lives have been touched by cancer, for people whose own faith has wavered, for people who want to meet a woman of tremendous beauty, grace, and strength. Though Stefanie passed away on November 19, 2009, her memory and inspiration live on. With laughter and tears, joy and heartbreak, this book shows how the spirits of our loved ones touched by cancer are still here.