A lot of people have a lot of things to say about Cam and his antics both on and off the field. Understandably (perhaps) some of them bring about criticism and others get over analyzed. That’s just the nature of being the best quarterback in such a highly visible league. What people don’t get to hear enough about however is the big heart Cam has. Everyone knows he spends a ton of his free time with kids, including on his Nickelodeon shows ‘All in with Cam’ where he helps children achieve their dreams but according to Candace Gregory and her husband Danmon, Charlotte natives, Cam’s giving streak is larger than that and extends far beyond the spotlight.
In town for the preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, Gregory says she spotted Cam and teammates leaving popular restaurant Sullivan’s carrying bags of food. Without missing a beat, the reigning MVP moved over in the crowd, handed off one of the two bags to a homeless man who was holding a hand made sign beside a bus stop and continued on. All indicators are that he had no idea anyone was watching.
I know what you’re thinking and what the media would say. So he gave away some leftovers? It’s nice but Cam can spare a few nibbles and some stale bread but it doesn’t end there. According to Candace and fellow teammates, the food was a full meal. That’s right, Newton placed an extra order specifically to give the meal away on his way out. According to QB Joe Webb who was at the dinner with Newton and sees this behavior frequently, where Cam will order extra meals whenever he knows a homeless person is nearby. Brenton Bersin corroborates the story saying he has seen give money as well to homeless people.
I think is important because it sheds new light no the face of a man that is well known for being generous when the cameras were on but has criticized, insinuating much of his demeanor is the result of carefully planned ‘photo ops’ These instances go to show that it’s about what you do when no one is looking. As Webb said:
It’s like second nature for him...It’s no surprise that he did it. A lot of people say, ‘What are you doing when people aren’t looking?’ It speaks volumes that he’s a great person.
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Again many people will say that a man who signed for over $100 million can spare a few extra meals but that isn’t really the point is it? I’m proud to know my city and my team is being represented by someone who shows the premeditated, active concern for those less fortunate, not only in their own home town but in every city they visit as an ambassador of this team, city and culture.
What do you think Panthers fans, should the media show a little more of this side of a man who was apparently trying to go unnoticed with his simple acts of kindness?