Armorion Smith, a 21-year-old defensive back for Michigan State, took a moment to himself in the home he shares with his five younger siblings. He has a lot on his plate, more than most college students and certainly more than most student-athletes. A month ago, his mother, Gala Gilliam, passed away from breast cancer, leaving Smith as the head of the household without a father figure. In addition to studying criminal justice and playing major college football, he became the legal guardian for four siblings on Sept. 11.
In an interview with ABC 7 Chicago news, Smith states “My cards were given to me,” “I didn’t choose my deck of cards.” His 19-year-old sister, Aleion, is responsible while he is away for approximately 12 hours each day to attend school and participate in sports. Acknowledging her unselfish dedication, Smith expressed his desire to assist her in finding a way to enroll in classes next semester while managing her responsibilities to the family
Smith records information on his smartphone to assist in organizing his hectic mornings. He wakes up before dawn to ensure that his two sisters and three brothers are awake before he departs for school. To attend therapy for his surgically repaired shoulders and participate in football team meetings, Smith either gets a ride from a teammate or uses a ride-hailing service for the 4-mile journey to campus before heading to classes and practice.
Smith and his family can afford to rent a house in the state capital, cover utilities, pay bills, buy food, and use ride-hailing services due to receiving multiple rounds of financial assistance. The GoFundMe campaign has amassed over $60,000, and he earns additional income through deals related to his name, image, and likeness. Michigan State University has provided support through a fund for students in need. Two fundraising events were held at a McDonald’s in Lansing and an IHOP in Livonia organized by former Michigan State football players Jason Strayhorn and Sedrick Irvin, and promoted on their “This is Sparta MSU” podcast.
“Me and my family are very happy, very appreciative and grateful,” he said. “There’s a lot of love Spartan Nation has shown us these past few months. It’s been a rough time, but to be able to take some of the stress off of my shoulders and show me a lot of love is a blessing and has warmed my heart.”
“It just puts a smile on my face to see them happy,” he said while watching video clips from practice on his phone. Smith’s sadness comes and goes, but he knows his mother would want him to carry on.
“I can feel her living through me,” he said. “Almost like I hear her voice telling me how proud she is of me.” – Armorion Smith
