Chris Alford: Warrior
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October 15, 2009
Filed under Campus Life
The Alford name is legendary at Chiles for wrestling. Will Alford, a 2009 graduate, was fierce on the mat and his younger brother Chris has reinforced the Alford reputation by being a beast on the mat in his own right. As a sophomore, Chris is wrestling’s most decorated 10th grader ever posting a 33-8 record before suffering a season ending injury during the regional tournament on his way to state. He battled back from that injury and is now battling his fiercest opponent ever.
On August 13, 2009, Chris received the devastating news that he had “germ-cell” cancer, a condition in which the body’s gametes produced in the reproductive organs are found elsewhere in the body. Upon diagnosis, Chris was immediately sent to Shands hospital in Gainesville, Florida to begin treatment. His chemotherapy treatments last 5 days per treatment and his body’s response to the treatments vary. “Some reactions are better than others,” states Chris. But his optimistic outlook has helped him through two of the six treatments he will need to undergo. This optimism, along with his determination and warrior mentality, will help Chris take down this challenging opponent.
Fortunately, Chris is not in this battle alone. His family has created an account on Caring Bridge an online website which allows a family to chronicle a patient’s progress and recovery. It also serves as a way for people to keep in touch by sending words of encouragement through an online guestbook. His friends also play their part to keep his spirits up. A close friend of the Alford family ordered wrist bracelets in show of support for Chris. Coach Marschka has also ordered bracelets to show support from the Chiles’ wrestling team and their family members. The bracelets are red and white and read ‘Chris Alford Warrior.’
“For me, ‘warrior’ represents Chris’ personality on the wrestling mat,” says Marschka, “and that same character trait will help him in his battle against cancer.” As of right now the bracelets aren’t available for sale, but that may soon change due to the numerous requests.
Teachers, teammates, and fellow students miss Chris’ presence here on the Chiles campus and school is one of the things that Chris says he misses most. He has set his sights on possibly returning to school in February. Until then visits and gifts from his friends serve as a reminder that Chiles awaits his return. “We miss Chris at wrestling, says Chad Rash. “He’s like a human stat book; he can tell you anything about anyone.”
“Chris is by far the hardest working, most dedicated wrestler I have coached,” states Coach Marschka. I have no doubt that he will beat the cancer and be back on the mat for his senior year.”
Stay Strong and Get Well Soon Chris!!!
Written by Lindsey Lee
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