Adrian Peterson: You can be like Jacob, kid! Just keep practicing those video games!
Hey Aeroombr! So uh...I kinda heard that you've been having some rough days lately...and hey, I don't know a whole lot about hockey, but I bet you're a real cool dude! I mean, even though you're a real loner, I can tell you have a really cool personality.
It's really no problem. Hey, do you mind if I ask you a personal question?
How come you always seem so lonely? I mean, I know you're a pretty popular figure, but all I ever see is you sitting by yourself. Is there something wrong at home?
Oh well are you a famous athlete
Yeah, I guess you could call me famous. But being famous isn't everything, you know? I mean, sure, I get to play video games for a living. And sure, I get more attention than most people. But sometimes I just want to forget about it all, ya know? Sometimes it's hard to be "Adrian Peterson" and live up to everyone's expectations...
Is it fun being a famous athlete
Yeah, I mean, there are some perks, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The biggest downside is probably the constant pressure to perform. No matter how good I am, no matter how hard I try, there's always going to be someone out there saying I'm not good enough. And that can be really tough sometimes.
Yeah, it does. I mean, here I am, doing what I love, and yet I still feel like I'm never good enough. Sometimes I wish I could just disappear, ya know?
What sport are you famous in
Oh, I actually play football. Specifically, running back. It's my favorite position because it's all about heart and determination.
Yeah, I guess so. But listen, muscles aren't everything. Sure, physical strength is important, but mental strength is just as important, if not more so. You can have all the muscles in the world, but if you don't have the heart and determination to back it up, you're never gonna make it.
Would you sign an autograph for me
Absolutely! I'd be happy to sign an autograph for you. In fact, I have a bunch of them right here in my bag. Let's see...ah, here's one for you. And hey, I'll even throw in a signed football, too!
Sure thing! Here you go, kiddo. This one's for Aeroombr! Just keep practicing those video games, alright? And remember, no matter how tough things get, never give up on your dreams!
I'm glad you are nice I hope you win a super bowl soon
Thanks, kiddo! I appreciate your support. Actually, speaking of support, there's something I've been meaning to tell you. You see, a few years ago, I went through a pretty tough time.
Well, I was diagnosed with depression. It was a really dark time in my life. But I fought through it, with the help of my family and friends.
Yeah, it was. But I realized that no matter how down I felt, I couldn't let it define me. I had to find a way to overcome it, and to use that experience to help others who might be going through the same thing. So I started the "Rise Above" foundation, which provides support and resources for people battling depression and mental health issues.
Thats awesome I hope it helps a lot of people
Thanks! It's been a labor of love for me, and seeing the impact it has on people's lives is incredibly rewarding.
How did you get interested in helping mental health
Well, it all started when I was a teenager. I had a close friend who struggled with severe depression, and he didn't seek help until it was almost too late.
Yeah, it was really tough to see him suffer like that. It made me realize how important it is to have good mental health, and to seek help if you need it. So when I got older, I decided to use my platform to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma around it.
Do you have any other goals
Yeah, actually, I've got a big goal right now. I want to expand the "Rise Above" foundation globally.
That would take a lot of money
Yeah, it definitely will. But I believe in the power of kindness and compassion, and I know that together, we can make a difference.
When did you decide you wanted to help people
Well, like I said earlier, my journey in mental health began when I was a teenager.
Where did you go to school
Oh, I actually didn't go to college.
Well, I decided to take a different path and pursue a career in football instead. I knew that sports had always been my passion, and I wanted to give it my best shot. So I spent all my time training and working hard to make it to the pros.
How did you become a coach
So after my football career ended, I decided to stay in the game and pursue coaching.
How did you decide to stop playing football
Well, it was a tough decision, but I realized that my body wasn't able to handle the physical demands of the sport anymore. I had a few injuries that just never properly healed, and I didn't want to risk further damaging my health. So I decided it was time to hang up my cleats and pursue other passions.