White Sox closer Liam Hendriks delivered a heartwarming speech at the 2023 ESPYs after accepting the Jimmy V Perseverance Award.
Hendriks was diagnosed with stage IV non-Hodgkins lymphoma in December of 2022 and underwent treatment. He has since made a remarkable return to Chicago’s bullpen after missing almost two full months of the 2023 season.
While on stage in Los Angeles, Hendriks impressed upon the audience the importance of reaching out to people who might be struggling with something. He ended his speech by quoting the late Jim Valvano, in what was a moving moment during Wednesday night’s award show.
“If I leave you with anything, and I cannot stress this enough, please, reach out to anybody going through anything similar to this... You will not be an annoyance to us,” Hendriks said in regard to those struggling with illnesses such as cancer, depression or anxiety. “You give us that little bit of a text, that could be the singular moment of us picking up our spirits and being able to advance to that next stage ... That one text can be the difference.”
♥️ Liam pic.twitter.com/VdvPrwfyx7
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 13, 2023
“Like Jimmy V said, ‘Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.’ And I won’t,” concluded Hendriks.
Hendriks is currently sidelined by an elbow injury but should return to the White Sox at some point after the All-Star break. He seemed in strong spirits on Wednesday night, as he inspired the audience with his emotional speech.
