Support from in and outside of the program has continued to flow in for Ohio State freshman offensive lineman Avery Henry, who announced last week that he had been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer.
Beyond the support of his family, Ohio State and head coach Ryan Day have made it clear that the Buckeyes are putting their full support behind Avery, who was “rocked” by his diagnosis.
“(We’re) trying to give Avery as much space as we can during this time, but also know that he’s got a whole team behind him that’s gonna help him through this fight,” Day said Wednesday. “Our culture is built on fight and he’s in for a fight.”
Henry, who is in his first year at Ohio State from St. Clairsville, Ohio, is also planning to make the trip down to Atlanta to be with the team when the Buckeyes takes on Georgia in the Peach Bowl on Dec. 31.
“He’s going to be down there in Atlanta with us, God willing, and still be with the team,” Day said. “That’s the hope. We’re just going to be a part of this fight with him, so I know the whole team’s behind him.”
Henry’s diagnosis had a profound impact on Day, who told the team that it offers a new perspective on life while they continue to support their teammate.
“This is a reason why you get into coaching is to have an impact on young people and help Avery fight this battle,” Day said. “But like we talked about with his family, there’s a reason why you’re here, there’s a reason why you’re a Buckeye. And maybe because along the way, you needed the (Ohio State James Cancer Hospital), you need Buckeye Nation, you need this team to help you win this fight, and we’re here for you.”
