The Parent/Fan Factor

Posted by Christie Gardiner on November 16, 2009

Deron Williams has a piece of artwork in his locker.  It’s a masterpiece of number 8 himself, drawn by a child.

He made this statement in regards to his absence:

“I would like to thank (Jazz owner) Mrs. (Gail) Miller, Greg Miller and Coach (Jerry) Sloan for allowing me to return to Utah to be with my wife and children.

“(Thursday), one of my daughters underwent a procedure in the hospital to address some health concerns. There are still unanswered questions and the doctors have been running more in-depth tests throughout (Friday).

“My daughter’s health is very important to my wife and I and it is important I remain in Salt Lake City as we monitor the situation. We both appreciate the support of the fans, the Jazz organization and my teammates. I will return to the court as soon as possible.”

In 2003 I held my first child in my arms and my life changed forever.  It’s a feeling that can’t be explained really.  It’s just something that before you have children you think you can understand and then after you have them realize that you had no idea.  I’ve held my child and so I know why Deron would up and leave a struggling team.  I would do anything for my children.  Anything.

I think Jazz fans understand this more than any other fan-base in the league.  Maybe it’s that we have more children.  Maybe it’s that we are family oriented.  Maybe it’s that Utah is a great place to live.

I don’t think anyone will forget how the fans rallied around Derek Fisher in his time of familial crisis.  (I think that is why we felt so betrayed when he got out of his contract to be closer to his daughter’s doctor and only moved further away, but I don’t want do dig at old wounds.)

Whatever it is that makes us, the fans, so family oriented I think we can all agree that we take our cue from the owners of this team, The Miller Family.  Through the years Larry and Gail have been great examples on putting family first.  Thank you, Gail and Greg, (and Jerry Sloan of course) for allowing Deron and his family time off in this situation.

And to Deron: The love and prayers of an entire state (and beyond) are with you at this time.  We wish your daughter a speedy recovery.  God Bless.

Rate this post

(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)

 Loading ...

4 Comments

Jimbo on November 16, 2009 said:

Hey Christie, Good post.

By the way…I do want to pick at old wounds. I have a post coming.

Jimmy

bbking on November 16, 2009 said:

Great post! As much as I love the Jazz and want to see Deron play I am glad to see his priorities are where they should be. Good luck, our prayers are with you Deron!

Nancy Thompson Mahler on November 16, 2009 said:

Great post Christie-

Boondock Saint (Zak) on November 16, 2009 said:

Amen to everything and a few extra amens for Deron and his family.

Leave Your Comment

How do I get an avatar for my comments?
It is easy and completely free. Just go to Gravatar.com and sign-up with your email address. Gravatar is globally recognized, so your avatar will show on every Gravatar-enabled website or blog.