The NFL has the perfect spokespersons in Quinnen Williams and Quincy Williams, both from the New York Jets, for its current Crucial catch initiative to raise awareness about breast cancer.
Quinnen is on the defensive line and Quincy is at the linebacker. Both brothers are very knowledgeable about the disease. Their mother Marquischa, their mother, died from breast cancer in 2010. They are now ambassadors for American Cancer Society and each have a locket that has a photo of her in it.
Quinnen, a 2019 draft pick from Alabama, says, “It means much to me, first of all because my mom died, and she had that twice.” “I see the hardship people go through, and the most emotional state people experience. It is my platform to bring awareness and lighten the darkness in any negative situation.
This fall, he visited pediatric cancer patients at Goryeb Pediatrics Hospital in Morristown. He invited them to join him as honorary captains for a Jets game. The patients were able to view the game from a suite with their families.
Quinnen visited Goryeb in the days after the draft as part of an annual tradition among Jets first-rounders. He was also interviewed by a patient to complete the “Jets Kid Reporter” series.
Quinnen surprised someone at Hope Lodge two seasons ago with tickets to Super Bowl.
He says, “I get to hear people’s stories and see smiles for those going through a difficult time.” “I want to reach out to as many people as possible and help them understand the situation and their families. I also want to let them know that there are people who care. Because I understand their struggles, they can say “There’s somebody on the platform for me.” It’s an incredible opportunity for me.
“I will do whatever I can to raise awareness.”
Quincy also went out of Murray State in the third round. Quincy was a part of 18 games for the Jaguars, eight of which were as a rookie. He was a victim of injuries last season, and was one of Jacksonville’s last cuts.
He was reunited with his brother in New Jersey and continues to spread the same message about breast and NFL’s annual programs to fight it.
He says, “Mainly not only to the person going through it but also the family members who are watching their loved one go through it.” It’s something they cannot control or help. My platform is used to inform them that they must keep the person through it with a positive outlook and smile. Family members are also important to me.
Last Sunday’s NFL record was set by the Williams family, or rather the Williams brothers. It was the first time that two brothers had sacks each against the Titans since 1982, when the statistic was made official.
After the accomplishment, Quinnen & Quincy naturally thought about their mother.
Quincy states, “It’s an amazing opportunity to play with my brothers anytime, but this past time we dedicated it to my mom and that record was another positive.” “And it was October when we always wear pink, which is very important. It was a way to let others know that they are not alone in this.
