It was one year ago, almost to the day (August 28) when the Eagles traded long snapper Jon Dorenbos to the New Orleans Saints. In a roundabout, isn't-this-a-crazy-world? story, Dorenbos is back in Philadelphia to celebrate.
In his own, magical way, of course.
Shortly after being traded to the Saints, Dorenbos underwent a routine physical, during which an aneurysm was discovered in his heart. Emergency surgery was performed, saving Dorenbos' life. His NFL career over, Dorenbos dedicated himself to physical and mental recovery and returns to Philadelphia this weekend for "An Evening With Jon Dorenbos" on Friday and Saturday nights. Dorenbos returns to the area on September 21 to perform at the State Theater in Easton, Pennsylvania and the next night, September 22, at the American Music Theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
"I'm always excited to come back to Philly and see all the great Eagles fans who supported me during my time here," said Dorenbos, a two-time Pro Bowl player with the Eagles in his 11 seasons here. "They've always been the best. I love them. I love being here."
Dorenbos' show is a combination of his fabulous on-stage magic and his heartfelt and inspiring personal message of a life that has overcome many extremely difficult moments. He's a one-man band on stage, a ball of energy who will make you laugh and make you cry. You will leave the show understanding more about Dorenbos' life and about how you can overcome the challenges in your life.
"It's my life. It's out there. I'm here to help people any way I can and get my message out," he said. "I've overcome a lot to be here. I'm grateful for everything. I have a lot of life to live, and I want to share it with people."
Even in the last year, his journey has been one of inspiration and emotion – first from the trade to New Orleans, to the shocking health diagnosis, and the courage to recover. Then the Eagles won the Super Bowl, and Dorenbos was in Minneapolis with the team sharing the moment. Later, he received a World Championship Ring.
Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Dorenbos, who is tied with Harold Carmichael for the most consecutive games played in franchise history, is forever part of the franchise.
