Jim Kelly is a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback who spent his entire NFL career as a Buffalo Bill. His hallmark as a player was his toughness. From growing up in East Brady, a small town in Pennsylvania, to facing a career threatening injury in his college days, to leading the Buffalo Bills team to an unprecedented four straight AFC championships, Jim’s toughness has been tested time and time again. After his retirement, not only did he lose his one and only son Hunter at the age of 8, to a disease called Krabbe Leukodystrophy, Jim has also survived not one, but two battles with cancer. Jim speaks about the power of the four F’s – Faith, Friends, Family and Fans – and what is really means to be “Kelly Tough.” His story is a journey of perseverance.
In his speech, Jim shares his inspiring life story. From his childhood years, to playing for the Buffalo Bills and losing four straight Super Bowls, to raising his son who fought a rare genetic disease and the grief that comes with losing a child, to battling cancer. Jim vulnerably shares his faith, how he overcame these obstacles, and what it means to be “Kelly Tough”. His story is a testimony of strength, perseverance, courage, teamwork, and leadership.
Jim emphasizes the difficulty of overcoming obstacles in the realm of sports, but more importantly in life.
His passion and charisma allow him to interact with his audience as he recounts his story.
He conveys truth, and leaves a lingering impression upon the hearts and minds of others.
Kelly Tough
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