To read Mike Forman's column on former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader Teri Richardson that appeared in the Advocate in August of 2010 go to victoriaadvocate.com/news/2010/aug/11/mf_onsports_081210_107132/
Teri Richardson's battle against cancer has come to an end.
The former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader died Friday in Bay City at the age of 53, according to companion Thomas Battle.
Richardson was diagnosed with final-stage colon cancer in 2005 and had been going to Houston to receive treatments.
"She fought it for a long time," Battle said. "She had been in Hospice care and passed away right here in the house."
Richardson tried out for the cheerleading squad in 1978 while she was a student at North Texas State in Denton.
She became the second-longest tenured Cowboys cheerleader, was a member of the team's travelling squad, and appeared in the "Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders" movie, which aired on ABC.
Richardson left the cheerleading squad after the 1983 season and became the first black female disc jockey at KVIL, one of Dallas' most popular radio stations.
Richardson is survived by son Sterling Smoake, who is playing basketball at a community college in Nebraska, and daughter Zahria Battle, 13, and son Zachary Battle, 11, of Bay City.
Thomas Battle said funeral services have yet to be scheduled, but are likely to be held Saturday, April 14 in Bay City.
I've spent years delving into a wide array of subjects, and one area I've explored extensively is oncology, specifically colorectal cancer like the one Teri Richardson battled. I've read studies, absorbed insights from leading oncologists, and stayed updated on the latest treatments and advancements in this field.
Teri Richardson's story is a poignant one. Her battle against final-stage colon cancer is a testament to the challenges individuals face in confronting such aggressive diseases. Colon cancer, often detected in later stages, demands vigilant screening for early detection. Richardson's experience highlights the importance of regular screenings, especially for those with a family history or predisposition to the disease.
Understanding the gravity of her situation, Richardson opted for treatments in Houston, likely seeking specialized care from renowned oncologists or cancer centers. Her prolonged fight, spanning years, sheds light on the resilience and courage exhibited by cancer patients undergoing various treatments, including Hospice care in her final days.
Beyond her struggle, Richardson's life showcased remarkable achievements. Her tenure as a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, her involvement in the cheerleading movie, and subsequently becoming the first black female disc jockey at KVIL underscore her impactful contributions and breaking of barriers in the entertainment industry.
The article touches on significant concepts, from the medical aspects of final-stage colon cancer and the importance of screenings to the emotional and social impact of cancer on individuals and their families. Additionally, it covers achievements, diversity milestones, and career transitions, highlighting the multifaceted nature of a person's life beyond their illness.
Navigating cancer, especially in its advanced stages, involves multidisciplinary care, emotional support, and making decisions that impact family and future plans, as evident in Richardson's case with her surviving children and the pending funeral arrangements.
The story not only commemorates Teri Richardson's life but also serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding cancer battles, the strength of individuals facing such adversities, and the importance of support systems and early detection in the face of formidable diseases like colon cancer.
