(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Friends and family gathered at the home of former Chicago Bear Steve McMichael on Friday to celebration his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
It’s not every day you hear bagpipes and drums in a backyard in Homer Glen. The Emerald Society of the Chicago Police Department led the celebration as McMichael listened from his bedroom.
“He’s just got a heart of gold. I love the guy,” Brian Cunningham said. “He’s been a tremendous supporter for us, the Emerald Society. He’s been a tremendous supporter for police and first responders. He’s just a great guy.”
For McMichael’s sister, Kathy, this week has been an emotional one.
“We’ve waited for this a very long time. It’s amazing that he gets to be a part of it. That’s just all we wanted, was for him to know that he’s going to be in the Hall of Fame.”
McMichael has been battling ALS since 2021 and no longer can speak or walk.
He is one of three former Chicago Bears players who are part of this year’s Hall of Fame class. The others, it was formally announced Thursday, are record-breaking kick returner Devin Hester and defensive end Julius Peppers.
Betsy Shepherd says her friend’s wishes were to live long enough to be inducted and to attend the ceremony.
“We almost lost him a few months ago,” she said of McMichael. “He had sepsis and pneumonia, on top of ALS. He waited for yesterday, and hopefully he’s going to be here in August. We’re going to Canton.”
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