Brian Dawkins is an all-time great athlete and a Hall of Famer, but he’s progressed into an even greater man. He’s focused on service, using his platform to bolster the mental health of others and pouring into others with his faith, resilience, and empathy.
The Hall of Famer participated in a ruck march in San Antonio, Texas, in partnership with USAA, the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), and Face The Fight to help amplify the cause of mental health awareness and, more specifically, support the mission of the battle of veteran suicide prevention. During his HOF induction speech in 2018, Dawkins notably talked about his mental health struggles while in the NFL, sharing his thoughts of suicide and how he ultimately overcame them.
We sat down with the legendary Eagles on behalf of USAA to discuss his relationship with USAA and the importance of supporting veterans, particularly in mental wellness. Dawkins emphasizes the need for community and support systems for individuals dealing with trauma, drawing parallels between veterans’ experiences and personal struggles.
Dawkins shares insights from his participation in a Ruck march, highlighting his respect for veterans and the inspiration he draws from their resilience. He also touches on the Eagles’ current season, reflecting on their growth and challenges, and concludes with a message of hope and gratitude amidst negativity.