On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the Seattle Seahawks will battle the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Every football player dreams of the chance to play in a Super Bowl game. This year, for one Seattle Seahawks outside linebacker, Derick Hall, it’s truly a miracle. Derick’s mother, Stacy Gooden-Crandle, gave birth to Derick at 23 ½ weeks gestation. Doctors told Stacy there was a 99% chance her baby wouldn’t make it through the night. But that 2 lb 9 oz baby boy fought. He fought not just that night, but for the rest of his life. That grit led him to the National Football League and now, the Super Bowl.
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Derick Hall’s Mother Helped Her Baby Boy Thrive
According to the Derick Hall One Percent Foundation, being in the top percent is normally a good thing, but not in his case.
Stacy was a young mother facing impossible odds. Born at just 23 ½ weeks, weighing 2 lbs. 9 oz., Derick’s village fought for him – until he could fight for himself. In the days and weeks following his birth, he got stronger. So, doctors moved from 99% against Derick surviving at all to 99% against him walking – then he walked,” the website explains. “So, they moved to 99% against him talking – then he started talking. So, they assured Stacy that he wouldn’t live a normal, everyday life… Well, the rest is history!”
Derick Hall understands that it wasn’t for his mom, community, and many prayers, he would not be where he is today. That’s why her established his foundation to help others. Derick provides Thanksgiving meals for those facing food insecurity, supports premature babies and their families, and dedicates himself to youth fitness.
“Naturally, Derick gets his desire to give back from his mother. Growing up, he witnessed firsthand her strength and tenacity in fighting for her clients at the Salvation Army and how that fight continued after work hours,” per the foundation. “They know that so many people need help, and they’re determined to make a difference. They are hoping that others will follow and increase the size of their own village.”
Derick Hall is living proof that miracles happen every day. And if you work hard, quite literally anything can happen.
This story’s featured image is by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images.
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