MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Ryan Lewis Sr., the defensive coordinator for Alabama State University football, is celebrating a special milestone in the 2024 season as it marks his first year being cancer-free. Lewis was diagnosed with jaw cancer before the 2023 football season began.
Initially, Lewis had a hard time processing the diagnosis. “I thought it was a joke,” he stated, believing it might be a misdiagnosis. Nevertheless, he remained committed to coaching the Hornets’ defense, even after doctors advised him that he would miss the season opener against Southern University.
Drawing from lessons learned in football, Lewis embraced the concept of “sudden change,” asserting that adverse situations shouldn’t derail daily life. “You can’t allow things that happen bad to affect the next day,” he shared.
His determination paid off as he returned to Alabama State ready to take on the season, attributing his resilience to the unwavering support from family, friends, and the university community. Lewis likened his victory over cancer to receiving a “second life.”
He now uses his experience to motivate his players, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. “Life is so precious. When you get to a point where you’re dealing with life and death, man, football is just the icing on the cake,” he remarked.
Following his cancer treatment, Lewis underwent reconstructive surgery on his jaw.