NFL running back DeAngelo Williams lost his mother to breast cancer in 2014 and is determined to help other women avoid the same unfortunate fate. Williams, now a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, announced this month that his nonprofit organization, The DeAngelo Williams Foundation, will pay for 53 mammograms at hospitals in the Charlotte, North Carolina and Pittsburgh areas, according to Today.com.
Williams, who was reportedly told over the phone this week by NFL vice president of football operations Troy Vincent that he won't be allowed to adorn himself in pink accessories the entire season in order to honor his mother, Sandra Hill, has become a staunch advocate of breast cancer awareness after losing Hill, who died at just 54, as well as four aunts.
In lieu of the pink gloves, cleats and socks, Williams has dyed the tips of his hair pink in honor of Hill, his aunts and other breast cancer survivors.
Williams has also in the past pushed for NFL players to be able to wear pink cleats throughout the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness month, but that request has been denied as well. The NFL issued this statement on Williams' pink-hued requests.
"There is a long-standing policy for all players regarding uniforms that is league-wide for all 32 teams. The league works with the clubs and players to raise awareness collectively for breast cancer during the month of October."
Williams responded to the NFL's decision, via ESPN.
"It's not just about October for me; it's not just a month, it's a lifestyle. It's about getting women to recognize to get tested."
