If you haven't heard the story of one-handed Seattle Seahawk linebacker Shaquem Griffin yet, prepare to be inspired. He was born with amniotic band syndrome, resulting in damage to his left hand and pain so severe that the hand was amputated when he was 4. That didn't stop him from going on to become a star football player and, along with his twin, Shaquill, getting drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2018.
Shaquem has been vocal about his hopes to inspire kids with disabilities and limb differences to pursue their own dreams, telling Sports Illustrated in 2017 that "if I keep doing what I'm doing, it's going to create a better future for someone else. It just goes on and on. ... Maybe I can help this kid who can help another kid who can help a thousand kids later."
Over the weekend, he got a chance to do just that. At an event put on by Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, FL, Shaquem met Joseph, a young fan who's missing part of his left arm. Joseph, who was decked out in full Seahawks gear, was shy at first but posed for pictures like a pro. They took a photo with his whole family and even shared a fist bump before it was all over.
It's all about showing kids that they can spread a positive message and do whatever they set their minds to, Shaquem said at the event. "I want to be able to use my platform to inspire others, no matter what age you are, no matter how many limbs you have, no matter where you come from. If I can give that positive light to somebody, they can give that positive light to somebody else."
Watch the adorable video ahead, and read through for more pictures of Shaquem and Joseph's sweet moment.
All.The.Feels 🤗 I'm Not Crying, You're Crying. A special moment with @ShaquemGriffin and @Eric_Harding 🙏🏻 @UCF_Football @UCFAlumni @Seahawks #AgainstAllOdds pic.twitter.com/VOpWf8XyIV
- Ryan Totka (@RyanTotka) February 9, 2019
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