Jim Kelly Accepts the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at the ESPY’s

Miami Hurricane legend Jim Kelly gave a provoking, emotional speech at the ESPY’s while accepting the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. Previous Jimmy V Award recipients include ESPN anchor Stuart Scott and NBA legend Craig Sager. Kelly was diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013, becoming cancer free in 2014. As many news outlets reported, Kelly’s cancer came back earlier this year. He recently had surgery to remove it and just had a precautionary follow with his doctor.

The 58 year old Kelly started at quarterback for Miami from 1980 to 1982. He was first in a long line of great Miami quarterbacks to make it to the NFL. After a year in the USFL, Kelly lead the Buffalo Bills to 4 straight AFC Conference titles. In 2002, Kelly was inducted into the pro football hall of game. You can watch Kelly’s speech at this YouTube link.

There’s been so much heartfelt reaction on Twitter. This is an example from the Buffalo Bills.

It’s hard not to get inspired by Kelly’s words today. He is a revolutionary when it comes to inspirational speaking.