On Wednesday night, one couple witnessed NFL star quarterback Cam Newton at the moment of an unexpected act of generosity. Candace Gregory and her husband caught the heartfelt gesture on camera, and wanted to share their touching story about the NFL MVP.
While in town for a preseason opener against the Ravens, Newton and a group of teammates were dining at Sullivan’s. When Newton left the restaurant carrying two bags, Candace Gregory noticed the bag was not leftovers, but instead contained a full meal.
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When Candace and her husband rounded the corner behind Newton, they watched as Newton gave one of the bags to a man seated at a bus stop with a sign that read, “Homeless Please help hungry — food.”
In an interview with ESPN, Candace stated, “People talk about him dabbing and all the stuff that in my mind ultimately should be irrelevant, because that doesn’t get to the heart of who he is.”
Candace continued, “I once saw him give something to a disabled child at a practice and people were like, ‘Oh, it’s a photo opportunity.’ But this was when nobody was looking. That’s why we shared it, because character is what you do when nobody is looking.”
Teammates of Newton’s say that this kind of generosity is just a part of who he is, and is embedded in his character. He is always ordering an extra meal if he sees someone in need, and will often give people on the street money. Newton doesn’t do it for the media attention, but out of the kindness of his heart.
Gregory recalled of the special encounter, “[Newton and his teammates] were walking in a group and he slid over, gave the guy the bag and kept moving.” She continued, “It was a quick, smooth motion, like he was handing the ball off to a running back.”
“He didn’t linger. He didn’t talk to the guy. You could tell he was trying to be discreet about it.”
Candace took pictures of the moment and her friend, April Boryczewski, shared it on Instagram with the caption: “It is what you do in secret, away from the media, away from the hype, that shows the true character of a man. Cam’s servants’ heart never ceases to amaze and humble me! I am so truly proud to say this young man represents my Queen City!”
[H/T ESPN]
