There were 25,048 fans at Autzen Stadium on September 15th, 1984. The Colorado Buffaloes were playing The Oregon Ducks. Late in the game, Colorado receiver Ed Reinhardt was tackled by two defenders. What appeared to be a routine hit turned out to be anything but. Six foot five Reinhardt appeared dazed and lay on the turf while trainers and doctors rushed to his side. After a few minutes, he was able to rise and walk to the Buff sideline. Colorado would eventually lose 27-20 and most fans exiting the stadium were unaware that Ed had collapsed on the sidelines before the game ended. He was rushed to Mercy Hospital where doctors determined that he’d suffered a serious brain injury. Big Ed would remain in a coma for three months. There was no assurance that he would survive. This morning, a very young cowboy attended 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. Thomas More Church in Centennial, Colorado. Just before the start of Mass, a kindly man arrived with a very tall friend. He asked the cowboy if it would be ok if he and his friend took the seats nearest the aisle. ‘Certainly,’ I replied. The friend towered over me and walked very slowly with the aid of a cane. He looked vaguely familiar. The Mass was a high one with a choir singing throughout. The tall gentleman seemed to know most of the songs by heart and sang with unbridled reverence. As communion neared, the priest led the congregation in The Lord’s Prayer. It is customary for parishioners to join hands while saying this prayer. The six foot five man on my left was insistent that we follow custom and hold hands…..but his right hand was compromised. Still, he nudged me twice, and I instinctively linked arms with Ed Reinhardt. Now some people might say that his injury robbed him of a most essential part of himself…..that his essence had been stolen and forever lost. When Ed sang the post communion song more passionately than anyone nearby, a tear came to my eye. It was clear that a portion of the former football star was lost on the field in 1984…..the cane…..the limp…..and the hand that no longer worked were evidence of that. What wasn’t lost…..and what shined so brightly in church this morning was the faith and incredible spirit of Big Ed. Surely his mother and father rejoice that their son survived that fateful day. Most certainly, another Father beams with joy as the best part of this faithful follower sings from his soul. Ed has positively affected teammates, friends, and fans by his commitment to reclaiming his life. Count this cowboy as one more of Ed Reinhardt’s many fans. Hope to see you again soon, big fella!
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