You know, I heard this news a few weeks back and just couldn’t believe it, let alone writing about it…

So, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has cancer. Yes. Specifically, its chronic myeloid leukemia. He was diagnosed, late 2008, but just recently shared it with the world. This Hall of Fame NBA basketball legend decided to share his disease as a way of saying that a cancer diagnoses doesn’t mean an automatic death sentence (Crazy, huh?).

Jabbar is fortunate that what he has is treatable. And even with this, he still experienced the common fear associated with this reality that death is around the corner. I just applaud his bravery and his heart that, even in this state, he’s still teaching and being a pillar of strength.

He appears to be such a great guy and, man, what a humbling spirit.

Okay, when you have children, they become your pride and joy, right? You don’t want any harm to come to them and you consciously pledge to put their lives before your own (Thanks, Mom!). I mean, give or take a couple time outs and go-to-your-room moments, children can be wonderful, correct (Uh, this is all from what I gather… our babies have four legs.)? Point is, you wouldn’t take any chances…

So, I was wondering why it appears that some NFL players are falling ill to staph infections… Yes, staph infections. The same infection known for it’s mutating ability and inability to respond to antibiotics. The current, most notable carrier is Cleveland Browns’ Kellen Winslow (He’s had it twice.).

Now, we all know this particular infection is found primarily in hospitals (We do all know this, right?… Just kidding, it’s okay if ya didn’t.) because of all the germs (I’m so about to yak.). So, why is it showing its contagious head in professional players’ locker rooms? More importantly, what can be done so these teams’ “pride and joys” aren’t put in harms’ way?

I mean, these guys represent a product and when the product isn’t functioning properly, all the stakeholders suffer, right?… (Warning parents: This statement is in no way comparing your precious off springs to such a product. I agree they are perfect angels with wings made of sugar.)… Okay, I’m back!

How can they stop these germs from prevailing? And thanks, Sheila from Ma Vie Folle, for the heads up on this story…