Andy Reid has been defined as a father and a coach. Perhaps nowhere has that line been more blurred than with Michael Vick. Reid, whose sons have struggled with drugs and the law, saw a little bit of them in him and took a chance on Vick when he was released from prison. Since then, Vick has repeatedly said that he has viewed Reid as a father figure and credits him for helping to turn around his life.
So on the day that Reid lost his son Garrett, it was poignant to hear Vick speak after practice.
“This is a very difficult situation for us all to deal with,” said Vick. “Thoughts and prayers and condolences go out to Coach Reid, Tammy and their entire family. Coach [Reid] has always been a great supporter of us, as a team, as an organization. He’s been a rock for us and a big teddy bear for us so we’re going to lean on him and we’re going to be there for him and we’re going to stay strong for him until he comes back and can lead us on. So our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. It’s very difficult but we’ll find the strength and a way to get through it. We’ve just go to lean on the High Power.”
Reid’s former QB, Donovan McNabb, also released a heartfelt statement.
“I was both shocked and saddened when I heard the news this morning of Garrett’s passing. During my time [in Philadelphia], both Garrett and Britt spent a lot of time around the football team and I know how much Andy loves them. I spent a lot of time with Andy and his family; we had a great friendship … we still do. My heart goes out to Andy, Tammy and the rest of the Reid family. I cannot imagine what they are feeling right now. God be with them.”
Services for Garrett Reid will be help at the Jesus Christ Church of Latter day Saints in Broomall. That family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Laurel House in Norristown.