The Comeback

Cleared

It was six weeks later, and I was back in the doctor's office with my grandma and Coach awaiting the results of the latest MRI. I was antsy knowing that the results of this MRI would determine whether I would ever play football again. The results would determine the rest of my life.

Dr. Jones walked back in the room, holding the results in his hand. He pulled over his stool and sat down in front of me.

"Well, son, the knee looks healthy. You've done a very good job in your recovery."

"Okay...So can I play again?"

"Wow, you're very eager. And yes, you can play football again."

I nearly jumped out of the chair I was sitting in. My hard work paid off. I really was going to play football again. My dreams of earning a scholarship to UT and becoming the next great Cowboys Super Bowl winning quarterback could still come true.

"Thank you Doctor," I said. "Thank you so much."

"See honey," my grandma said. "I told you that you would play again."

"I know, Grandma," I said wrapping her up in a hug and pecking her cheek. "You were right."

My grandma scoffed, "Nothing new there."

"Doctor," Coach started. "Can he play Friday?"

"Fine by me. Just make sure he isn't in any pain."

Coach looked over at me, "Better get in the film room 'cause you're starting Friday."

"I'll study all the film. I'll be ready, Coach."

"That's what I like to hear," Coach said as he shook my hand. "Practice at six am tomorrow. Don't be late."

"No sir, I'll be there ready to go at 5:45."

"Good James, I'll be waiting."