Marc Narducci: Taliaferro a worthy recipient of this award

Adam Taliaferro has turned tragedy into triumph. He always remembered the help he received in time of need and is now spending the rest of his life giving back. Isn't that the definition of a humanitarian?

Apparently the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association feels that way. During the 105th annual dinner on Jan. 26 at Cherry Hill's Crowne Plaza, Taliaferro will receive the Humanitarian Award.

Many sports celebrities will be on hand that evening and tickets remain available. (For more information, to to

» READ MORE: www.pswadinner.com

.)

Taliaferro's story is well known to many but inspirational no matter how many times it is recited.

A former Inquirer all-South Jersey running back from Eastern in 1999, Taliaferro has both an inspiring and uplifting message to spread every time he ventures out in public.

He suffered a horrific spinal injury in September, 2000, while playing football for Penn State against Ohio State. At the time of the injury, the prognosis was grim as to whether he would be able to walk again. His life appeared confined to a wheelchair.

We all know by now that Taliaferro defied the odds and has eagerly embarked on a new goal - to help others who have walked in his shoes.

The Adam Taliaferro Foundation (

» READ MORE: www.taliaferrofoundation.org

) was started in 2001, and, according to director Tom Iacovone, this non-profit organization has raised nearly $300,000, helping others who have incurred spinal injuries throughout the tri-state area.

The mission of the foundation is to not only provide financial but emotional support for victims of spinal cord injuries and education to treat and prevent future injuries. In addition, the foundation provides yearly scholarships to high school students.

And more than the money, which in itself has been sizable, has been the time that Taliaferro has given, often visiting those who have suffered similar accidents.

The key for Taliaferro was that he never bemoaned his situation even though many of us who saw him in high school thought he had a future career in football on Sundays following Penn State. No, he was happy to be alive and to be able to contribute to society. And what a contribution it has been.

"The day of the injury was horrible, but everything after that has been positive." Taliaferro said from the offices of Montgomery, McCracken, Walker & Rhoads, LLP in Philadelphia, where he works as a lawyer. "While on the road to recovery I didn't have a negative thing happen to me."

What perspective.

And in an odd way, he feels that the injury was a blessing of sorts.

"If I was still playing football, I would never had had this opportunity," he said. "I definitely believe things happen for a reason. So instead of playing football I can try to help people."

And help them he has.

Taliaferro not only lends his name but his heart to the organization. When the foundation receives a call from a person who has suffered a similar injury, Taliaferro, often accompanied by his parents, Andre and Addie, makes a personal visit.

"I remember when I sat at Magee rehab and people reached out to me, and that inspired me," he said. "I know what it means to talk to somebody who has been through the same thing."

Now there is a South Jersey football all-star game played every June in Taliaferro's name. This is the major fund-raising event for the foundation that has grown significantly, thanks to the efforts of people like Iacovone and the expanding list of corporate sponsors.

The spirit of volunteerism has contributed to the success of the foundation, and the quarterback of the team remains Adam Taliaferro.

"When I got to meet Adam and his parents and see their commitment, it motivates you to want to do more," Iacovone said. "Adam inspires all of us."

Can it be that Taliaferro turned 27 on New Year's Day? He still works out regularly, looks to be in playing shape.

He realizes that being honored at the dinner is really a tribute to his entire team.

"The award is humbling," he said. "It is a byproduct of some of the great things the foundation has done over the years."

Great people tend to do great things.

The Philadelphia Sports Writers Association couldn't have picked a better recipient.