Devon Stills is a former American football defensive end who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 10 seasons. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft and also played for the Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and New England Patriots.
Stills is best known for his time with the Bengals, where he was a key member of the team's defense. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2014 and was a member of the Bengals team that reached the Super Bowl in 2015.
Birth Name
Devon Stills
Born
March 19, 1989 (age 33)
Birth Place
Wilmington, Delaware
Height
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
Spouse
Asha Joyce
Stills was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2014, but he was able to return to the field the following season. He retired from the NFL in 2018.
Devon Stills
Devon Stills, a former American football defensive end, is recognized for his resilience, determination, and advocacy.
Football Career: 10 NFL seasons, Pro Bowl selection, Super Bowl appearance
Health Advocate: Hodgkin's lymphoma survivor, raising awareness and support
Fatherhood: Daughter Leah's battle with cancer, inspiring others
Philanthropy: Stills Foundation, supporting pediatric cancer research and families
Inspiration: Overcoming adversity, perseverance, and making a difference
Role Model: Strength, courage, and the power of human spirit
These aspects highlight Devon Stills' journey as a talented athlete, a courageous health advocate, a dedicated father, and a philanthropist who uses his platform to make a positive impact on society. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
1. Football Career
Devon Stills' football career is a testament to his athleticism, dedication, and perseverance.
NFL Seasons: Stills played in the NFL for 10 seasons, a significant achievement in a physically demanding sport.
Pro Bowl Selection: In 2014, Stills was selected to the Pro Bowl, an honor bestowed upon the league's top players.
Super Bowl Appearance: Stills was a member of the Cincinnati Bengals team that reached the Super Bowl in 2015, the pinnacle of American football.
These accomplishments highlight Stills' exceptional talent and hard work on the field. His football career not only brought him individual recognition but also contributed to the success of his teams.
2. Health Advocate
Devon Stills' journey as a health advocate is deeply intertwined with his personal experience as a Hodgkin's lymphoma survivor. His diagnosis in 2014 marked a turning point in his life, leading him to become a vocal advocate for cancer awareness and support.
Stills' platform as a former NFL player has given him a unique opportunity to raise awareness about Hodgkin's lymphoma and other cancers. He has shared his story publicly, speaking about the importance of early detection, the challenges of treatment, and the need for ongoing support for cancer patients and their families.
Stills' advocacy extends beyond raising awareness. He has also been actively involved in supporting cancer research and providing practical assistance to those affected by the disease. Through the Stills Foundation, he has raised funds for pediatric cancer research and provided financial aid to families facing the financial burden of cancer treatment.
Devon Stills' role as a health advocate is a powerful example of how personal experiences can drive individuals to make a positive impact on the world. His advocacy has raised awareness, provided support, and contributed to the fight against cancer.
3. Fatherhood
Devon Stills' journey as a father is deeply intertwined with his experience as the father of Leah Still, who was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer, at the age of four. Leah's courageous battle with cancer and her unwavering spirit inspired countless people around the world.
Stills' role as a father during this challenging time was one of strength, love, and resilience. He became Leah's primary caregiver, advocating for her medical needs and providing emotional support throughout her treatment. Stills' dedication to his daughter and his unwavering belief in her ability to overcome cancer became a source of inspiration for others facing similar challenges.
The connection between Devon Stills and "Fatherhood: Daughter Leah's battle with cancer, inspiring others" is profound. Stills' experience as a father during Leah's illness transformed him into an advocate for children with cancer and their families. He has used his platform to raise awareness about childhood cancer, the importance of early detection, and the need for continued research and support for families facing this devastating disease.
Devon Stills' story is a powerful example of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of family in the face of adversity. His dedication to his daughter and his unwavering advocacy for children with cancer have made a lasting impact on the world.
4. Philanthropy
Devon Stills' philanthropic efforts are closely tied to his personal experiences and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. The Stills Foundation, which he established in 2014, is a testament to his dedication to supporting pediatric cancer research and families facing the challenges of childhood cancer.
Research Funding: The Stills Foundation provides funding for innovative pediatric cancer research, supporting scientists and institutions working to develop new treatments and cures for childhood cancers.
Family Support: The foundation offers financial assistance and emotional support to families facing the financial and emotional burdens of childhood cancer. This includes providing grants for medical expenses, transportation, and other essential needs.
Advocacy and Awareness: Through the Stills Foundation, Stills advocates for increased awareness of childhood cancer and the need for continued research funding. He uses his platform to educate the public about the challenges faced by children with cancer and their families.
Community Engagement: The foundation organizes community events and programs that bring together families affected by childhood cancer, providing a sense of belonging and support during difficult times.
The Stills Foundation is a powerful example of Devon Stills' commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Through his philanthropic efforts, he is not only supporting the fight against childhood cancer but also providing hope and support to those who are directly affected by this devastating disease.
5. Inspiration
Devon Stills' personal journey and unwavering spirit have made him an inspiration to countless individuals. His ability to overcome adversity, persevere through challenges, and make a positive difference in the world embodies the true meaning of inspiration.
Overcoming Adversity: Stills' diagnosis with Hodgkin's lymphoma and his daughter Leah's battle with cancer are testaments to his resilience and strength in the face of adversity. His ability to maintain a positive attitude and continue to fight for what he believes in serves as an inspiration to others facing difficult circumstances.
Perseverance: Stills' unwavering determination to return to the football field after his cancer diagnosis and his continued advocacy for children with cancer demonstrate his perseverance and dedication to his goals. His relentless pursuit of excellence, both on and off the field, inspires others to never give up on their dreams.
Making a Difference: Through the Stills Foundation, Devon Stills has dedicated himself to making a difference in the lives of children with cancer and their families. His philanthropic efforts, advocacy work, and personal story have raised awareness, provided support, and inspired countless individuals to get involved in the fight against childhood cancer.
Role Model: Devon Stills' journey has made him a role model for athletes, parents, and individuals from all walks of life. His courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact serve as a reminder of the power of the human spirit and the importance of using one's platform for good.
Devon Stills' story is a powerful example of how one person can overcome adversity, persevere through challenges, and make a profound difference in the world. His inspiration extends far beyond the football field, touching the lives of countless individuals and inspiring them to believe that anything is possible with determination and a compassionate heart.
6. Role Model
Devon Stills embodies the qualities of a true role model through his strength, courage, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. His journey as a football player, health advocate, father, and philanthropist has inspired countless individuals, demonstrating the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and make a positive impact on the world.
Strength:
Stills' strength is evident in his ability to overcome personal and professional obstacles. Despite being diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, he returned to the football field, showcasing his physical and mental resilience. As a father, he stood strong for his daughter Leah during her battle with cancer, providing unwavering support and care.
Courage:
Stills' courage is reflected in his willingness to share his personal experiences and advocate for important causes. He openly discussed his own health journey and used his platform to raise awareness about cancer and the challenges faced by children with the disease. His courage inspires others to face their own fears and challenges with determination.
Power of the Human Spirit:
Stills' story is a testament to the indomitable power of the human spirit. His ability to persevere through adversity, maintain a positive attitude, and find purpose in giving back serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. He demonstrates that even in the face of life's most difficult challenges, the human spirit has the capacity to triumph.
Devon Stills' role as a role model extends far beyond his athletic accomplishments or philanthropic endeavors. He represents the strength, courage, and resilience that resides within us all, inspiring us to overcome our own challenges, pursue our dreams, and make a meaningful contribution to the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Devon Stills
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding Devon Stills, providing informative answers to enhance understanding of his life, career, and advocacy work.
Question 1: What is Devon Stills best known for?
- Devon Stills is best known for his successful career as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL), where he played for teams such as the Cincinnati Bengals, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and New England Patriots.
Question 2: How did Devon Stills overcome adversity in his life?
- Stills faced significant adversity when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2014. Despite this setback, he returned to the football field the following season, demonstrating his resilience and determination to overcome challenges. Additionally, Stills has been a vocal advocate for his daughter, Leah, who battled childhood cancer, using his platform to raise awareness and support for families facing similar challenges.
Question 3: What is the Stills Foundation, and what does it do?
- The Stills Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by Devon Stills that supports pediatric cancer research and provides financial assistance to families affected by childhood cancer. The foundation organizes events, raises funds, and advocates for increased awareness and research funding to help children battling cancer.
Question 4: How has Devon Stills used his platform to make a difference?
- Stills has used his platform as a former NFL player and public figure to raise awareness about cancer, particularly childhood cancer. By sharing his personal experiences and advocating for increased research funding and support, Stills has inspired countless individuals and brought attention to the challenges faced by those affected by cancer.
Question 5: What are some of the key takeaways from Devon Stills' story?
- Devon Stills' journey teaches us about resilience, perseverance, and the power of using one's platform to make a positive impact. His story inspires us to face challenges with courage, to support those in need, and to never give up on our dreams.
In conclusion, Devon Stills' life and career are marked by his ability to overcome adversity, his dedication to giving back, and his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world. His story serves as a reminder of the human spirit's strength and the importance of using our voices and platforms for good.
Transition to the next article section: Devon Stills' legacy extends beyond the football field and into the hearts and minds of countless individuals who have been touched by his story and inspired by his courage and compassion.
Devon Stills
Through his journey as a football player, health advocate, father, and philanthropist, Devon Stills has left an enduring legacy that transcends the realm of sports. His ability to overcome adversity, his unwavering dedication to supporting children with cancer, and his compassionate spirit have made him an inspiration to countless individuals worldwide.
Devon Stills' story reminds us of the indomitable power of the human spirit to triumph over challenges and make a meaningful impact on the world. It is a story of resilience, perseverance, and the importance of using our voices and platforms to advocate for those in need. By embracing Stills' legacy, we can strive to live lives of purpose, compassion, and unwavering determination to make a positive difference in our communities and the world at large.
