69-Yard Run Towards Hope

Helping to find a cure for pediatric brain cancer; that is what the Team Jack Foundation is all about.

Just two years ago, 7-year-old Jack experienced a life threatning seizure due to a large tumor near his brain stem. After undergoing brain surgery, parts of the tumor were removed, and sadly the rest of the tumor was declared inoperable. The tumor caused Secondary Epilepsy causing Jack to experience multiple seizures a day. In October of 2011, children specialists performed a second brain surgery, removing most of the tumor safely, making Jack seizure free. Currently, Jack is still undergoing 60 weeks of chemotherapy, scheduled to end in July. 

Jack grew up as a Husker football fan and finally attended his first game at Memorial Stadium for his 5th birthday. He was given a jersey by his mom and dad, Brianna and Andy Hoffman, featuring Rex Burkhead’s number, 22. Rex Burkhead quickly became Jack’s idol.

Once hearing about Jack and his story, the Husker football team took young Jack under their wing. Jack has been on the sidelines for many of the home football games, and the team frequently visits Jack in the hospital. However, most recently, Jack scored a touchdown at the 2013 Husker spring game. Jack Hoffman suited up for the game as every other team member did. Wearing the number 22 jersey and a husker helmet, Jack stepped foot on the field accompanying Husker quarterback, Taylor Martinez. Martinez handed it off to Jack who ran a total of 69-yards scoring a touchdown. The crowd jumped to there feet and roared for Jack’s victory.

Jack’s moment at the spring game, which was featured on ESPN and many other outlets, gave him the media attention he deserved. Celebrities and announcers everywhere were blowing up Twitter and Facebook giving Jack and the Husker football team a shout-out. The nation has been moved by Jack’s story.

You can stay updated on Team Jack here.

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