Touchdowns of Love: DeAndre Hopkins Honors Mom’s Resilience
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DeAndre Hopkins, star wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, continues to honor his mother, Sabrina Greenlee, in unique and touching ways both on and off the field.
Greenlee’s story is one of resilience and strength. In 2002, a woman threw acid at her face out of anger after finding out her boyfriend was seeing her and Greenlee at the same time. Over time, her vision fluctuated, but it eventually faded away entirely. Despite being a single mother of four in South Carolina, trapped in abusive relationships, and struggling to make ends meet, Greenlee raised her son, DeAndre, with love and determination, instilling in him the values of perseverance and compassion.
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The year Hopkins was drafted, Greenlee started a nonprofit called SMOOOTH (Speaking Mentally, Outwardly Opening Opportunities Toward Healing) to assist domestic violence survivors. Her son has worked with her to advance the cause, meeting with the women she has mentored, raising money for her organization and others, and speaking to high school students about his past.
Despite facing unimaginable challenges, she was a devoted and nurturing mother, providing for four children on her own and instilling in them the values of perseverance and compassion. Greenlee’s journey as a single mother navigating through adversity serves as a testament to her resilience and determination. She worked tirelessly to ensure her children had the support and guidance they needed to succeed, even in the face of personal hardships. Her commitment to her family and her unwavering love for her children continue to inspire and uplift those around her.
Fast forward to today, and DeAndre Hopkins is not only a powerhouse on the football field but also a symbol of love and gratitude for his mom. Every touchdown he scores becomes an opportunity to celebrate her enduring spirit. After crossing the goal line, Hopkins makes sure to find his mom in the stands and hand her the football, allowing her to share in his moment of glory.
The tradition of letting his mom touch the ball after a touchdown began during Hopkins’ college days at Clemson University and has continued into his professional career. It’s a simple gesture that speaks volumes about the bond between mother and son.
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Fans and fellow players alike have been touched by Hopkins’ gesture, praising him for his thoughtfulness and devotion to his mom. Social media lights up with messages of admiration each time he hands the ball to Greenlee, turning every touchdown into a moment of shared joy.
But for Hopkins and Greenlee, their connection goes beyond the football field. They are each other’s biggest supporters, cheering each other on through life’s victories and challenges. Greenlee’s strength in the face of adversity serves as a constant reminder to Hopkins of the power of love and persistence.
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Greenlee’s journey from surviving a traumatic acid attack to raising her children as a single mother is a testament to maternal strength. Hopkins’ simple yet heartfelt gesture of handing her the football after each touchdown symbolizes our deep appreciation for the mothers in our lives. This story inspires us to honor and cherish the incredible women who shape and support us every day.
So, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us all take a moment to appreciate the remarkable women who inspire, support, and love us unconditionally, just like Sabrina Greenlee does for her son, DeAndre Hopkins.