Armorion Smith, a talented football star from Michigan State University, has recently opened up about the heart-wrenching circumstances that led him to raise his five siblings single-handedly. At just 21 years old, Smith found himself thrust into an unimaginable role as the primary caretaker after his beloved mother tragically lost her battle with breast cancer.
The devastating loss of his mother due to this relentless disease has left Smith and his family shattered. Yet, in the face of adversity, Smith has displayed extraordinary strength and maturity beyond his years as he steps up to shoulder the weight of their familial responsibilities.
Without a father in the family’s life, the defensive back has become the head of the household while studying criminal justice and playing major college football. He became the legal guardian for four siblings on September 11.
‘My cards were given to me,’ he told AP while standing on a small porch behind their four-bedroom, two-bathroom home as the sun set on a recent evening. ‘I didn’t choose my deck of cards.’
Smith‘s 19-year-old sister, Aleion, is in charge while he is gone for about 12 hours most days to be a student and athlete. Appreciating her selfless sacrifice, he said he hopes to help her find a way to start taking classes next semester while juggling her role with the family.
The Michigan State player looks and sounds determined to help his siblings be happy, healthy and safe. His teammates watch in awe.
‘I couldn’t even begin to imagine if I was in his situation,’ linebacker Jordan Hall said. ‘He’s in a tough spot, but he is one of the strongest guys I have ever known.’
Smith grew up in in Detroit, recalling how he was homeless at times and hopped from house to house to find places to sleep. He was a three-star prospect at River Rouge High School and attended the University of Cincinnati for two years.
When Smith, holding his two-year-old sister, arrived at a recent fundraiser, each of his other siblings introduced themselves to people there to support the family and shook their hands while making eye contact.
‘That’s from my mom,’ he said.
So, when you see Armorion Smith on the field, know that his story goes far beyond football. He carries the weight of his family’s hopes and dreams on his shoulders. As Smith continues to excel both on and off the field, his story will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for many, and his determination will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those touched by his story.
Flip to the next page for photos of Armorion Smith’s mom and five siblings…
