by Wendy Harmon on March 6th 2012 (9:30PM EST)
To see Barry Williams around town in Wilkesboro you might not even take a second glance. This linebacker coach at Wilkes Central High School is modest and humble and considers himself a shy country boy and lucky, despite the fact that he's battling cancer. Wait . . . Did I just call him lucky and he has cancer? Yes I did, because that's what he said. In a one-on-one interview on WXII12 Williams told the reporter that an average lifespan for being diagnosed in stage 3 of esophageal cancer is 11 months and yet he's still here. Does he feel sorry for himself? No! He gets up every morning, showers, puts his clothes on like many other men in Wilkes County, and goes about his day, doing as much as he can.
Barry is no stranger to cancer, in fact he was only 13 years old when he was introduced to his nemesis. At this point in time of his life it was Burkitt's lymphoma, but chemo treatments helped to get him healthy. Everything was going great for him until 2010 when he found himself standing toe-to-toe with cancer once again. This time it was with esophageal cancer. Each day Coach Williams fights on, pushing forward and pushing down the barriers that this sickness tries to impede upon him. Luckily for this well loved coach he's not alone!
On March 4 2012, The March 4 Barry took place at Wilkes Central High School. "Around 800 people showed up raising over $20,000.00!"; Darren Pierce, founder of the event stated. It was an uplifting experience, even the pep band was present and cheers of "Go Barry, beat the cancer!" could be heard echoing in the cold air as walkers made their way around the Wilkes Central track. All of the money raised from this event (as well as future events) will be used for Coach Williams' medical expenses.
Even though the march is over there is still plenty of opportunities to help out. If you're interested in knowing more check out the website in Barrys' honor March4Barry.org
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