Jack Hoffman, the young cancer patient who captured the hearts of millions with a 69-yard touchdown run in a Nebraska football game in 2013, has passed away at the age of 19. His death was confirmed by officials on Wednesday.
Hoffman, a freshman at the University of Nebraska at Kearney and aspiring attorney, was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 5. Despite battling the disease for many years, Jack’s story became a symbol of hope and inspiration.
The moment that made Jack famous occurred during the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ spring football game in 2013. Jack, then 7, was invited onto the field in full uniform to participate in the game. With the help of longtime Nebraska quarterback Taylor Martinez, Jack ran 69 yards to the end zone in front of thousands of cheering fans at Memorial Stadium.
The emotional moment was followed by a celebration with his teammates, including C.J. Zimmerer, who lifted Jack into the air after the touchdown. The video of Jack’s touchdown run went viral, amassing over 9 million views on YouTube.
Jack’s inspiring journey led him to a meeting with President Barack Obama at the White House, where his story was shared with the nation. His bravery resonated with many, and he became a symbol of strength for children battling cancer.
In 2013, Jack was part of Nebraska’s football outreach efforts, which included bringing him onto the field for the spring game. Jeff Jamrog, then the program’s director of football operations, recalled the moment as one of the most powerful experiences at Memorial Stadium.
“The loudest cheer I’ve ever heard in Memorial Stadium,” Jamrog said. “It was a pretty awesome moment. And then from there, it just went viral, worldwide.”
Jamrog, who is now the head football coach at Midland University, mentioned that he last spoke with Jack just before Christmas. He described how Jack’s voice had sounded weak, and it was clear that his health had declined.
The University of Nebraska expressed deep sorrow over Jack’s death but celebrated his lasting impact. “Small in stature, but not in heart,” said the university’s statement. “Your legacy will live on forever, Jack.”
Jack Hoffman was also known for his efforts to raise awareness for cancer research, through the Team Jack Foundation, which continues to honor his legacy by supporting pediatric cancer research. The foundation posted a statement saying, “Jack may no longer be with us in person, but his legacy lives on in the work of the Team Jack Foundation, in the lives of the children and families we’ve helped, and in the hope he gave to so many.”
Though Jack is gone, his story of courage and hope continues to inspire millions of people worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who followed his journey.
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