Cancer is a disease that does not discriminate.
New England Patriots defensive tackle Milton Williams knows that all too well – especially over the last few years. And as he has in seasons past, he will once again represent the American Cancer Society for the NFL's My Cause My Cleats initiative.
"Cancer touches everybody, so I wanted to do the American Cancer Society to cover everyone I know who has been impacted by it," Williams said.
That list of people unfortunately grew for Williams as of late.
His former Philadelphia Eagles teammate, Alex Singleton (now a linebacker for the Denver Broncos), was diagnosed with testicular cancer in October after a random NFL drug test picked up on elevated hormone levels.
Around the same time, Kurt Hester, Williams' director of strength and performance from his time at the University of Houston, lost his battle with Stage IV melanoma passing away at just 61 years old.
And in early September, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel announced that defensive coordinator Terrell Williams was stepping away from his duties calling plays to focus on receiving treatment for a prostate cancer diagnosis.
"Cancer has hurt and affected a lot of people, so I'll do whatever I can to try and spread awareness about research to find a cure," said Williams, who is among other Patriots teammates rallying around the American Cancer Society and other similar causes for My Cause My Cleats this year.
"When you keep hearing about more and more people you know finding they have cancer or passing away it's tough."
Understandably, the diagnosis that hit Williams hardest was that of his own mother, Willanette.
During his time with the Eagles in 2023, Williams' mom was diagnosed with breast cancer after doctors found a mass on her breast.
It was a scary time for Williams, though his mother had the mass surgically removed and went back for check-ups before reaching full remission.
"She still goes in to get her checkups and stuff, but she's back to normal," said Williams.
"When she first told me it was a tough, tough situation. You know, your mom does so much for you to help you get where you're going, and it felt like I was helpless. What can I do? And you know, this is what I feel like I can to. Keep bringing awareness to the fight to find a cure."
