1. Thomas family recognized for their courage
For 30 years, Bills Legend Thurman Thomas has been a respected member of the Western New York Community. A role model for aspiring athletes, Thomas is also an advocate for individuals suffering from mental health conditions. The topic is one that hits home for the Hall of Famer, and his family, since his daughter Annika battled anxiety and depression. Last night, Annika was recognized for her perseverance at the Friendship Foundation Courage to Come Back Awards banquet. The third annual event focuses on honoring those who have made significant progress in recovering from mental health conditions and/or dependence on drugs or alcohol.
Annika's story, one that she's bravely shared with the public in hopes of raising awareness, has proven inspirational and is what earned her the Courage to Come Back Award. Thomas, his wife Patti and their family, were also honored with the Recovery Advocates Award for their commitment to helping Annika through her recovery.
Bills Wall of Famer and co-host of One Bills Live Steve Tasker also attended the event to offer his support for the Thomas family and to say a few words.
Other 2018 Courage to Come Back Award recipients include Super Bowl champion Keith O'Neil, former UB football star Alex Neutz and his mother Adrienne Neutz.
2. McCoy makes memories with Buffalo youth
Bills veteran running back LeSean McCoy recently paid a visit to the Boys & Girls Club Butler-Mitchell Clubhouse in the city of Buffalo. Alongside his teammates such as Shaq Lawson, Harrison Phillips, Hunter Sharp and Deon Lacey, McCoy spent time playing NFL Flag football with the youth at the center. Reflecting on his afternoon, McCoy shared a heartwarming message on his Instagram.
"Me and a few teammates surprised the kids at the boys and girls club... seeing the kids' reactions and excitement felt amazing ... impacting the youth and our futures generation ... I honestly can say we enjoyed it just as much as they did," said McCoy.
The visit, part of the Bills Social Justice initiative, was just one of four events that Bills players participated in during the team's 2018 Community Outreach Tuesday. In all, 22 Bills used their day off to engage and give back to different programs that benefit local students and athletes
3. Tre' White supports Louisiana athletes
Bills second-year cornerback Tre'Davious White is at it again.
Since entering the NFL in 2017, it has become commonplace for White to give back to the place that shaped him – Shreveport, Louisiana – and especially his alma mater. This week, White, although he couldn't attend, hosted a basketball shoe drive at Green Oaks High School for student athletes.
"He [Tre White] really epitomizes what we say here at Green Oaks – that 'turning green minds into giant success,' said the school's principal Steven Grant to KSLA News 12 Sports in Louisiana. "He makes that motto so true."
White, whose generosity is a constant reminder of his commitment to the area, took to Twitter to further show his support.
"I stay true to my people!!! #CooperRoad, Louisiana," said White.
