Denver Broncos defensive lineman Zach Kerr is all about disrupting offenses in the NFL, but when he’s not on the field, he’s rattling something far greater: Sarcoidosis, an inflammatory condition that often affects the lungs and lymph nodes.
Why stand up to the disease that causes inflammatory cells to clump and interfere with an organ’s structure and function? The 27-year-old’s mother, Tinya, has the condition.
“Hers is attacking her lungs, her respiratory system. One day it’s okay. The next day she’s inflamed and needs to be on a breathing machine,” Kerr told CBS Denver.
According to the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, “When left unchecked, chronic inflammation can lead to fibrosis, which is permanent thickening or scarring of organ tissue.”
Kerr has been named the national spokesperson for the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, which is an organization in search of a cure. It also provides support for those who have it and advances treatment options to improve quality of life.
And, Kerr is hoping that by using his platform, he will be able to bring awareness to the disease that tends to see higher rates in African-Americans.
“I just want sarcoidosis to be one of those things that people are fighting for,” the five-year NFL veteran said.
April is Sarcoidosis Awareness Month, and on April 13, those with sarcoidosis and their loved ones are encouraged to wear purple.
“Last year we saw purple hair, nails, bowties, rainboots, jewelry and more! Get creative and share with us how you’re showing your support for Sarcoidosis Awareness Month,” the organization wrote. “Share your photo on social media with the hashtags #PurplePower and #SarcoidStories to show off your purple swag- tag us on Facebook or on Twitter for your chance to be featured!”
So, for at least one day, Kerr and his family will trade in orange and blue, and wear purple. No matter your NFL allegiance, who can’t root for that?
