Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson is an incredible person on and off the field. After learning his high school principal was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, the sophomore QB took action, and his pledge to help in the fight against cancer has inspired fans to donate to a great cause--and not just supporters from Manhattan, Kansas.
For every touchdown he scores this season, fans can pledge a dollar amount to contribute to Johnson's fund. Unfortunately, Kansas State never reached the endzone in their shocking defeat at the hands of BYU this past weekend.
I am raising money to help my high school principal, Dr. Chris Botts, beat cancer.
— Avery Johnson (@avery2johnson) September 18, 2024
Pledge a donation toward every TD I score this season to support Principal Botts in his fight against stage four cancer.https://t.co/1o4xSrWE3s pic.twitter.com/aL8LFqrHJW
Despite the unfortunate result, Johnson's fund miraculously reached its goal of $20,000 after just one game, despite his lack of touchdowns. The reason? BYU fans have stepped in and donated for a great cause.
Countless Kansas State fans who made the trip to Provo last weekend seem to share a similar sentiment towards BYU--a high quality organization with a welcoming and supportive fanbase. Although the Wildcats disappointed on the field, fans from both fanbases have jumped at the opportunity to do some good from the outside.
On Wednesday, Avery Johnson announced that he’d be pledging money for every touchdown he scores this season for his former high school principal who is battling stage four cancer.
— Jason Kinander (@JasonKinander) September 23, 2024
Johnson didn’t score a touchdown on Saturday, but his $20K goal already hit.
Why?
BYU fans. https://t.co/wphgmxRvPu pic.twitter.com/VVPgbEEGL9
Joining the Big 12 family has done wonders for BYU's athletic program and university mission, but the friendship and connections of the other member universities has added an aspect of friendship and unity that stretches beyond what we see on ESPN.
Avery Johnson struggled against the Cougars, throwing two interceptions and leading his team to a trio of field goals as his Wildcats failed to meet pre-game expectations in the rocking environment housed by LaVell Edwards Stadium.
But I'm going to make a point here (and you may need to sit down for this) that some things are bigger than football, even for the stars on the field. Johnson is a dynamic and highly talented quarterback whose story of generosity and selflessness inspired outside observers to put their resources into a worthy cause.
To any who have donated or still wish to donate, thank you for your thoughtfulness and charity. Life's struggles reach well beyond the confines of a football field, so to see so many put their personal needs aside to focus on the life of an individual in need is inspiring.
I hope to hear similar stories throughout the rest of the season. For now, all I can say is thank you.
UPDATE: Due to the high volume of donations, the fund has doubled its goal to $40,000, and every donation is welcome! If you'd like to donate to Avery Johnson's cancer fund, you can do so by clicking here.