However, when you compare sports injuries to injuries other people struggle with, it may not seem as devastating. This change in perspective is something Julius Erving notably realized and expressed in the latter stages of his illustrious career after once visiting a rehabilitation center.
Back then, after more than a decade in the NBA, Father Time slowly caught up with the legendary high-flyer. Dr. J acknowledged this reality before the 1986-87 season started, ultimately leading to a firm decision.
"As a professional in the NBA, I don't plan to play anymore strictly because I don't want to play anymore after this year. It's not that I couldn't, shouldn't or whatever, but that's the decision I've made and I'll stick with it," he proclaimed.
Retirement was unavoidable, especially given the heightened worry regarding injuries. Erving had experienced his fair share of them throughout his career, whether it was groin injuries or his knees' sudden fragility which significantly impacted his peak. In his final season, he only participated in 60 games.
Yet, all that took a backseat for the former forward after a profound encounter at a Dallas Medical Institute. Admitted and treated at that time was a 16-year-old girl who was a promising basketball talent herself. She had not been fortunate in her own young life, as Dr. J shared.
"She walked out of the house one day, was hit by a car and fell on the ground and hit her head…she lost her speech, the use of her motor skills. She's been at that rehabilitation center for the last two years," remembered the former forward.
It's all about perspective
When Erving stepped foot into that clinic, he probably expected to bring patients a few hours of happiness or at least momentarily help them forget their struggles while engaging in conversations or signing autographs - all more than worthy gestures from his side.
That particular girl, learning to start her life anew practically, exhibited such courage and resilience in fighting against her circumstances that Erving couldn't help but admire her. He began reflecting on his own situation, with retirement on the horizon and nagging injuries. Little did Dr. J know that she would ultimately have a much deeper impact on him than the other way around.
"Who am I to complain? I'm thankful every day I wake up and smell the roses and keep going," he said and continued, "Even if I'm the only one who believes that and I have to tell myself every day to do it, that's the way it's going to be."
These powerful words from an exceptional player and an even more remarkable human being remind one never to forget the struggles of our fellow human beings and that it's all about perspective. Whether navigating life's unexpected twists and turns or facing adversity on the basketball court through injuries, maintaining a positive outlook is always key.
