Victor Oladipo was phenomenal throughout the 2017-18 season. He averaged 23 points, five rebounds and four assists per game. His success on the court impressed 10-year-old Cameron Kirk from Danville, Indiana who is currently diagnosed with leukemia.
When Oladipo posted a triple-double in Game 6 vs the Cavs, he wrote a letter to Kirk to uplift him during his tough times. Kirk was originally diagnosed the day that the Pacers took an early 1-0 series lead on the Cavs. Oladipo’s letter was nothing short of inspirational.
“I recently heard about your battle with Leukemia, and I just wanted to encourage you to stay strong! I know this is a scary and very frustrating time right now, but you must believe in yourself and everyone around you that is helping you through this time.
May God give you the strength, comfort, and special blessings that you need as you face each new day. No matter the road you are given, remember to never give up. You never know what God has planned or your life.
I wish you all the best through your treatment and encourage you to keep a positive attitude and listen to your doctors, nurses and parents — they are there to help you win this battle! All my teammates and I are #CameronStrong!”
The Indianapolis Star also added that Oladipo made jokes about LeBron James during their series.
“I won’t tell you what he said about LeBron,” said Carrie Kirk. “Cameron has just been very thankful that Victor would take the time to do this during the playoffs. He’s a very quiet kid, especially with what’s been going on. He just paused for a moment, and had this huge grin on his face. You could just tell.”
This man is hands down one of the best role models in a long time! His speech after Game 7 was phenomenal & Cameron receiving this today proves his words are genuine! Thank you @VicOladipo you put a huge smile on my son’s face and made mom & dad’s hearts happy! #CaptainKirk pic.twitter.com/W4mYyHiRGr
— Carrie Kirk (@carrie_kirk) May 3, 2018
Doctors said that Cameron would be expected to battle leukemia for three years. Props to Oladipo for making a huge difference in his life.