Synopsis
A Gift for Ron: Friendship and Sacrifice On and Off the Gridiron by Everson Walls, co-authored with Kevin B. Blackistone, is a poignant and inspiring memoir that transcends the typical sports narrative, focusing on the profound friendship between two former Dallas Cowboys teammates, Everson Walls and Ron Springs, and an extraordinary act of sacrifice that defined their bond. The book begins by chronicling Walls’ journey from an undrafted rookie out of Grambling State University to a four-time Pro Bowl cornerback who played thirteen seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Cowboys, and later with the Super Bowl-winning New York Giants. Walls sets the stage with vivid recollections of his football career, shaped by his experiences under legendary coach Eddie Robinson at Grambling and his rise to prominence in the NFL, where he recorded fifty-seven interceptions, ranking tenth in league history. However, the heart of the story lies not in his on-field achievements but in the deep, brotherly connection he forged with Springs, a fullback who became the unofficial leader of the Cowboys’ African-American players when Walls joined the team in 1981.
The narrative weaves together the evolution of Walls and Springs’ friendship, which began on the gridiron but grew far beyond it. After playing together for four seasons, their bond deepened through shared charitable work, close family ties, and becoming godfathers to each other’s children. Springs, described as selfless and always willing to champion others’ causes, profoundly influenced Walls, who admired his friend’s courage and generosity. The book takes a dramatic turn as it details Springs’ devastating battle with diabetes, which led to amputations, dialysis, and a life-threatening decline. Walls recounts the emotional toll of watching his vibrant friend deteriorate, culminating in a critical moment when a potential kidney donor for Springs fell through. Upon learning they shared a rare blood type, Walls, bolstered by his faith and inspired by Springs’ selflessness, made the life-altering decision to donate his kidney in 2007, becoming the first professional athlete to give an organ to a teammate. This act of sacrifice, detailed with raw honesty, underscores the book’s central theme: true friendship is defined by giving, not receiving.
Beyond the personal story, A Gift for Ron serves as a platform to educate and inspire, with proceeds supporting the Ron Springs and Everson Walls Gift for Life Foundation, which raises awareness about kidney disease and organ donation. Walls reflects on his advocacy efforts, including testifying before a House subcommittee to promote organ donation legislation, emphasizing the broader impact of their story. The narrative also touches on Springs’ tragic fate, as he slipped into a coma during a routine procedure in 2007, shortly after the transplant, and died in 2011 without regaining consciousness. Walls’ grief is palpable, yet he frames their story as one of hope and legacy, highlighting how their foundation continues to save lives. The book’s conversational and engaging style, praised for avoiding preachiness, draws readers into Walls’ journey of personal growth, from his on-again-off-again high school football days to his evolution into a man capable of such an unselfish act.
The memoir also explores the broader context of football’s brotherhood, drawing parallels to other stories of camaraderie and sacrifice, such as Brian’s Song, while addressing the sport’s darker side, including Walls’ frustration with the NFL’s slow response to concussion-related issues, exemplified by the struggles of peers like Dave Duerson and Gale Sayers. Through it all, Walls maintains a tone of gratitude and humility, emphasizing that his fame as a football star pales in comparison to the legacy of his friendship with Springs. A Gift for Ron is a compelling blend of sports memoir, personal transformation, and a call to action, offering readers a moving testament to loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring power of human connection. It resonates with football fans and non-fans alike, celebrated for its heartfelt storytelling and its universal message about the true meaning of giving.