Ailing former Alabama football star pens emotional message: ‘This has been a beautiful journey’

Former Alabama football standout Kerry Goode has shared a heartfelt message with his fans as he continues his courageous battle with a debilitating neurological condition. Goode, now 59 years old, recently posted a reflective and emotional note on Facebook, signaling his preparation to face the next chapter of his journey.

“Friends, I am not dropping the mic and walking away, nor am I giving up, but I am tired,” Goode wrote. “So, I decided to take a moment to write down my thoughts and express my deepest feelings.”

Goode, who was a member of the Alabama football team from 1983 to 1987, received his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2015. This condition is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects nerve cells responsible for muscle control. According to the ALS Association, the disease ultimately hinders the brain’s ability to initiate and control voluntary movements. While the average life expectancy after an ALS diagnosis ranges between two to five years, Goode has already defied these odds by living with the condition for nearly a decade. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ALS.

In his poignant Facebook message, Goode shared the following heartfelt words:

“First and foremost, thank you for being a part of my life. Each one of you has brought joy, love, and meaning to my days, and I am profoundly grateful for the moments we shared. Whether we laughed together, cried together, or simply sat quietly, every moment we spent together has been a treasure.”

Addressing his family directly, Goode expressed immense pride and gratitude:

“To my family, you have been my rock, my support, and my source of unconditional love. I am so proud of each of you and the wonderful people you have become. Please know that I carry your love with me, and I leave behind my love for you. Cherish each other, support one another, and keep our family bond strong because it is who I am.”

To his friends, he shared words of deep appreciation:

“To my friends, you have been my sidekicks, teammates, and accomplices in this thing called life. Your friendship has been a gift that I will cherish forever. Thank you for the adventures, the laughter, and the understanding. Hold onto the memories we created and let them bring a smile to your face when you think of me, and comfort you in times of sorrow.”

Reflecting on his journey, Goode highlighted the beauty and challenges of life:

“Life has been filled with ups and downs, joys and challenges, but through it all, I have been blessed beyond measure. I encourage you to live each day with gratitude, kindness, and love. And remember to take time for the simple pleasures, to laugh often, and to share your love generously because none of this costs you a dime but is worth more than gold.”

Goode expressed his peace and faith as he nears the end of his journey:

“As I move closer to saying goodbye, I want you to know that I am at peace. I have faith in the journey ahead and trust that I will be reunited with you in spirit. Please do not grieve me because I left it all on the field. Instead, celebrate the life we shared and the love that will always connect us.”

He concluded with a powerful and uplifting request:

“This has been a beautiful journey. All I ask of is that you follow me to the grand finale to see me walk again and hear ‘Well done’ as our greeting.”

Signed with love and pride, Goode’s message ends:

“With every ounce of my love, Kerry ‘KG’ Goode #35.”

Kerry Goode’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive football career. Goode and his three brothers — Chris, Pierre, and Clyde — all played for the University of Alabama’s football program, a testament to their family’s deep athletic talent. Additionally, their cousin, Antonio Langham, was a standout cornerback for Alabama and a key figure in the team’s success.

During his time as a running back at Alabama, Goode demonstrated exceptional talent and determination. He concluded his collegiate career with 1,350 rushing yards and six touchdowns, along with 30 receptions for 222 yards and one touchdown. Goode also achieved a notable kickoff return for a touchdown, further solidifying his place as a versatile and valuable player. His performance earned him recognition and a spot in the NFL. In 1988, he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.

The Goode family’s bond was a source of strength and pride, but they have also faced profound loss. Kerry’s youngest brother, Clyde, passed away in 2012 after battling leukemia, a loss that deeply impacted their tight-knit family. Despite these challenges, the Goode family’s resilience and love for one another remain a defining part of their story.

Kerry Goode’s courageous battle with ALS has inspired countless people, both within the football community and beyond. Through his advocacy and transparency, he has shed light on the realities of living with ALS while emphasizing the importance of love, gratitude, and perseverance. His message serves as a reminder to cherish life’s moments, nurture relationships, and approach challenges with grace and determination.

As Goode continues to navigate his journey, his unwavering spirit and powerful words leave a lasting impression. His heartfelt message is not only a testament to his personal strength but also a call to all who read it to live life with purpose and love. Goode’s story is one of triumph, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire for years to come.

In reflecting on the life and career of Kerry Goode, it is impossible to ignore the profound impact he has had on those who know him. Whether as a football player, a brother, a friend, or an advocate, he has embodied strength, humility, and compassion. His willingness to share his journey with others highlights the importance of community, the power of resilience, and the beauty of facing life’s challenges with an open heart.

As fans, friends, and family rally around Goode during this chapter, his words of gratitude and love resonate deeply. “Celebrate the life we shared,” he urged, reminding everyone to focus on the joy and connection that life brings. Goode’s request to “follow me to the grand finale” encapsulates his enduring optimism and belief in the beauty of the journey, no matter how challenging it may be.

Kerry Goode’s journey may be marked by adversity, but it is defined by his incredible strength, his love for others, and his unyielding faith. His legacy, both on and off the field, is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of a man who has touched countless lives. As he prepares for the next chapter, Goode’s words serve as a powerful reminder to live fully, love deeply, and face life’s challenges with courage and grace.