Fear Is a Choice

From fighting for his life to pursuing a career in the NFL, ACC Player of the Year and star Pittsburgh Steelers running back James Conner has lived a story offering wisdom and advice for anyone who has faced adversity.

During his first two years at the University of Pittsburgh, running back James Conner became one of the Panthers’ biggest stars, breaking records and winning the adoration of fans. Then, in the first game of his junior year, disaster struck in the form of a torn MCL. During rehab, James’s health continued to inexplicably deteriorate until a chest X-ray and biopsy confirmed the unthinkable: a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Suddenly, it wasn’t just the dream of an NFL career that was in jeopardy; it was James’s life. Yet when he shared the news of his diagnosis publicly, James rallied family, friends, and fans, with his message of hope and courage: “Fear is a choice. I choose not to fear cancer.” In just ten words, James defined his own journey on his own terms and refused to back down from one of the most dreaded diseases known to man.

Drawing strength from his faith in God and the support of his community and loved ones, James underwent treatment but continued to practice with his team despite the intense physical toll of chemotherapy. He was declared cancer-free within a year. Returning to the field in 2016, he finished his college career with a record-breaking 3,733 rushing yards and 56 touchdowns. Entering the NFL draft early, his success continued. Selected in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he quickly became one of the most beloved rookies in the league.

In Fear is a Choice, James candidly shares his experiences during his battle with cancer and beyond, encouraging readers and illustrating the spiritual truths and personal principles that got him through his darkest days. James Conner is an inspiration for everyone who wants to learn how to tackle life’s problems with dignity, faith, and determination.

Author Biography

James Conner is the running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. In his freshman year at the University of Pittsburgh, James broke Tony Dorsett’s school record for most rushing yards in a bowl game with 229 yards. The following year, James set an ACC record with 26 rushing touchdowns in one season and was named the ACC Player of the Year. After fighting cancer in his junior year, he made a triumphant return his senior year, propelling him into the NFL. Tiffany Yecke Brooks has worked as a lead or contributing writer for nearly two dozen books. She has written alongside veteran sports journalist and author Don Yaeger since 2005. She holds a PhD in Literature from Florida State University and teaches writing courses for several universities.