GOSHEN, Ind. — Throughout the storied history of the National Football League there was no more exciting running back than Chicago Bears’ superstar Gale Sayers. When one reminisces about gridiron glory, Sayers emerges to the forefront.

On May 16, Sayers, will share his story with cancer survivors as the keynote speaker of Goshen Center for Cancer Care’s sixth annual cancer survivorship program, True Celebration.

Born and raised appropriately in the Kansas town of “Speed,” Sayers was known as the “Kansas Comet” when he was drafted by George Halas and the Chicago Bears in 1965. After leading the league in scoring and running for six touchdowns in one game, he was named Rookie of The Year in 1965. He is the all time NFL kickoff return leader in touchdowns and yardage, and was named to the 75th Anniversary All Time Team. In 1977, Sayers became the youngest player in NFL history to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

But Sayers’ Hall of Fame story is not complete without mentioning his work as an author and humanitarian. Sayers’ much acclaimed 1971 autobiography “I am Third” represents more than his athletic and business success, it reflects Sayers’ philosophy of life: “the Lord is first; my family and friends are second and I am third.”

The sad, yet heartwarming, award winning television movie “Brian’s Song” was scripted directly from “I am Third.” The movie featured the special on and off the field relationship between Sayers and his cancer stricken teammate, Brian Piccolo. Sayers and Piccolo were devoted friends and deeply respectful of, and, affectionate with each other. Piccolo helped Sayers through rehabilitation after injury, and Sayers was by Piccolo’s side throughout his battle with cancer.

When presented with an award as pro football’s most courageous player in May, 1970 — just one month before Piccolo passed away — Sayers said in his acceptance speech the award should not have gone to him at all, but instead to Piccolo.

“Compare his courage with that I am supposed to possess,” Sayers said at the time, later giving the trophy to his dear friend.

Goshen Center for Cancer Care’s True Celebration is an annual event recognizing those who are courageously facing their fight against cancer. It is about honoring survivors, their life, their courage and their accomplishments. Area cancer survivors and community member are invited to this free event.

“Each year we search for a speaker whose story and experiences mirror the strength, compassion and perseverance we see in our patients and their loved ones each day,” said. Dr. Doug Schwartzentruber, medical director of Goshen Center for Cancer Care. “Their strength inspires the physicians and staff at the cancer center each day — continually pushing us to provide the best cancer care possible.

“Gale Sayers stood by Brian Piccolo’s side as he battled cancer, and his story is one that will resonate with both those who have battled cancer, and the loved ones who stood by them in the fight. We are thrilled that he will join us as we honor cancer survivors and acknowledge their individual stories of hope and courage.”

Sponsored by Goshen Center for Cancer Care, True Celebration begins at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 16 at Sauder Hall Performing Arts Center on the Goshen College campus. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Early arrival is strongly recommended, as seating will be limited. No tickets are required. The Performing Arts Center is located on the Goshen College campus on College Avenue and 12th Street, Goshen, Ind.