Heath Evans

I've never interviewed a National Football League player on the day of a game before, until today.

Granted, it's only preseason, but even then, NFL players are usually off-limits until after the game.

Unless it's something they really want to talk about.

For New England Patriots fullback Heath Evans, that something is his foundation.

Heath's website (www.heathevans.org) says the foundation is "dedicated to fostering hope and healing in the lives of children and families affected by sexual abuse.  We're committed to breaking the cycle of abuse."

Probably not a topic a lot of NFL running backs give much time to before a game.

But Heath Evans, and his wife Beth Ann, are special.

They met seven years ago on the plains, as Heath was preparing to leave Auburn for the NFL.

Before Heath joined the Patriots, he teamed with Shaun Alexander on the Seattle Seahawks, whom Heath calls "my best friend."   (Who says Auburn and Alabama can't get along?)

Inspired by Shaun's philanthropy in the Pacific Northwest, Heath vowed to begin his own charitable work.

You could hear the passion in his voice, and the hurt in his heart, when Evans described the effects of sexual abuse on young victims he's known.

Heath and Beth Ann's shared Christian faith motivates them to reach out to help others.

"I've always believed that to him who has been given much, much is required," Heath says.

You can hear my interviews with Heath and Beth Ann Evans on the "Kickoff for Kids" statewide talk Radiothon Wednesday, August 15th.

It's a fundraiser to assist foundations for Heath, Auburn running backs coach Eddie Gran, former Alabama great George Teague, and ESPN's Mike Gottfried.

As the Journal goes to print, seven stations around the state have picked up the broadcast, with hopefully more to come.

See you next week!

God bless - Jeff