Mark Herzlich

 

Sandon Mark Herzlich, Jr. was born on September 1, 1987. He is the brother to Bradley and the son of Barbara and Sandon Herzlich, Sr. Mark’s passion has always been football and he inspires us all through his success, despite being diagnosed with sarcoma while playing at Boston College. Entering the 2009 season at BC, Mark was defending ACC Player of the Year and the league’s active leader in career tackles. Upon being diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, Mark was forced to take the season off.

Mark found the things that he cared about most while sitting in a hospital bed being pumped full of chemicals. He found solace in his family, in his closest friends and in the fight he possessed to rid himself of this horrible disease and return to play the sport that he loved. Through prayer, the skill of the doctors and the ongoing research taking place globally, Mark was able to beat sarcoma.

After treatment, Mark was able to return to play for BC and was ultimately signed by the New York Giants in July of 2011. He started in two games and finished the season as a Super Bowl Champion! Mark has played with the Giants for seven years and received the 2011 ESPY Comeback Player of the Year. He serves on the National Board of the Joyful Heart Foundation, the Advisory Board of the Jay Fund for pediatric cancer relief and frequently goes to schools and hospitals to speak with kids (with and without cancer) about hope.

Mark’s courage and outreach have earned him numerous honors including the Disney Spirit Award, an honorary Lott Trophy & the ACC Commissioner’s Cup, the 2015 Ed Block Courage Award and a Sarcoma Foundation of America 2010 Courage Award. Mark is honored to be here again to present the 2017 Courage Awards, alongside Damon Billeck, after having received the award personally just seven years ago and presenting the awards in 2012 and 2013.