Former Redskins and Cowboys defensive lineman Brandon Noble knows his way around hospitals and health care workers.
His own medical journey started with an extreme case of mononucleosis when he was playing at Penn State and continued years later with MRSA infections and a ruptured appendix. Meanwhile, his wife Mary Kate was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago; fortunately, she now is cancer-free and back in triathlon training.
Noble, 46, had just opened a sit-down restaurant earlier this year in Exton, Pa. when the COVID-19 crisis struck. In order to stay in business, he was forced to change into a pick-up, take-out, and delivery format like so many restaurants around the country.
His Bright Spot Cafe recently received a delivery order that a customer wanted sent to a local county hospital. Noble decided to double the amount of food and then made the surprise delivery.
The hospital staff was so pleased that they told their family and friends about the good deed. Noble began receiving additional requests to serve medical workers in other nearby facilities. He decided to match the amount spent on any order designated to those on the COVID-19 front lines.
“Food, especially good food, makes people smile,” says Noble. “It just gives them a little joy in their day. Coach (Joe) Paterno used to say it wasn’t about football. It was what kind of person you will become down the road…what kind of leader in your community. We’re doing something good right now…just a little something I can do to pay back and help people who are fighting the battle.”
We at NFL Alumni salute Brandon Noble and all of you who are doing good deeds in your community. Let us know if you are aware of a former teammate helping others during these stressful days.
We pray that all of you stay safe and healthy.
