Auburn offensive lineman and leukemia survivor Shon Coleman played in the Tigers' victory over Arkansas State Saturday in just another step of what has been a remarkable story.
Coleman had last played four years ago, and was diagnosed with leukemia in the spring of 2010. The news came just a month after the four-star prospect signed with Auburn, and it took until the end of spring in 2012 before he was even cleared for limited practice.
In the fourth quarter of Auburn's 38-9 win over Arkansas State, Coleman got his chance. He came into the game at left tackle, and helped lead a Tiger touchdown drive.
The response on Twitter was overwhelming, both from the Auburn faithful and even fans from other schools.
This was the thing I was happiest about tonight RT @JHokanson: Cancer survivor Shon Coleman in at left tackle for #Auburn. #WDE @stjude
— Gene Hunt (@Law_Tiger) September 8, 2013
How great is it to see Shon Coleman on the field for #Auburn? Cancer survivor. He never gave up. #WarEagle
— Rob Chaney (@RobChaneyAD) September 8, 2013
Great to see #72 Shon Coleman in the game. Long time coming. WAR EAGLE!
— AUTigerBloggin (@AUTigerBloggin) September 8, 2013
@TheRealBigShon I'm so glad I got to see you on that field #WDE
— Brice Herrin™ (@Tigers930410) September 8, 2013
@TheRealBigShon I'm so glad I got to see you on that field #WDE
— Brice Herrin™ (@Tigers930410) September 8, 2013
It’s pretty dang awesome to see Shon Coleman on the field playing. Kudos young man! Kudos to you.
— D. Miller (@dmiller1856) September 8, 2013
I hate Cancer a whole lot more than I hate Auburn. Shon Coleman is a damn inspiration. You can do ANYTHING! #RollShon
— Saban's Sidewalk (@EricBlackerby) September 8, 2013
Coleman underwent treatment at St. Jude Children's Hospital, and was able to befriend an Auburn fan with the same diagnosis. The two have kept in touch, and Mike Szvetitz of the Opelika-Auburn News wrote a fantastic piece about their bond through leukemia and friendship.
Auburn opens up conference play against Mississippi State this Saturday.
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