Emily recognized the death of Gale Sayers, friend to Brian Piccolo

A time for reflection! Thank you Lori Piccolo for sharing your story about your father’s friendship across barriers with Gayle Sayers which demonstrates the transformational benefit of believing in people for who they are regardless of race, color, creed or circumstance.

My brother Todd Landis who tragically died of cancer at age 29 was the Brian Piccolo scholarship winner from Chicago to Wake Forest on the 10th anniversary of Brian’s death. My brother Henry Landis and I attended the ceremony when Todd received the scholarship and met Gayle Sayers and Joy Piccolo.

My daughter Sarah Walker attended Wake and worked in the football office for one of Todd’s coaches.

Kathryn Pretzel-Shiels represented the family at the dedication of Todd’s locker at the Wake Forest football stadium.

Lynn Mehler Kubat kept Todd’s memorial tree alive. And we all remember watching the movie “Brian’s Song” Rachel Walker.

RIP to Gayle and Brian. Hope their inspired friendship can be an inspiration from heaven.