"He was someone who wanted the best for both of his kids. He was a great role model. He worked really hard at what he did, very selfless. He had a lot of interests and hobbies that he gave up once me and my sister were born, to pour the most he could into us.
"Growing up, every Saturday, we'd go to the field … and we'd be out there for hours. It was hard work, and he wasn't easy on me, but it's something I can look back on and be so grateful I had someone like that in my life to push me. And the opportunity that we had to have fun together resonates still."
Donovan Jackson
Grandfather, Wilson, battled and defeated prostate cancer
Jackson is grateful to his grandfather, Wilson, who worked as an NCAA official, for passing along his love of football. Jackson recalled watching games together with his grandfather and deepening his understanding of — and affection for — the sport.
"I know he watches every game. Early on in my career he'd send notes on what I had to do better. I'm like, 'Papa Jack, I have a whole building full of people that tell me how to do better. I don't need you to tell me that. I'll be fine.' But now you know, he'll call in and check in sometimes, ask how I'm doing."
"The Crucial Catch initiative and what it represents, what it promotes, impacts millions of families. My story is just one of many."