Meet Coach Lawrence "Superstar" Terry

From Coach to Patient: The Journey of Recovery

For a man who thrived on vitality and movement, the challenges of recovery were immense. Physical therapy replaced his daily training routines; quiet introspection replaced the roar of the track. In these vulnerable moments, Lawrence leaned on his faith. He later reflected, “I realized that my survival wasn’t just for me—it was for the people I could still help. God gave me a second chance, and I wasn’t going to waste it.”

His family played a vital role. His eldest son, Cupid, prayed fervently. Jordin, Josiah, and his baby girl, Grace—whose birth he attributes to divine grace—gave him reasons to fight harder. Every small victory in therapy was celebrated, every setback met with renewed determination.

Returning to the Track, Renewed by Purpose

Months passed before Lawrence felt strong enough to return to coaching. When he did, he came back changed, possessing a new mission that went beyond sporting excellence. He became an advocate for heart health, encouraging athletes to listen to their bodies, prioritize recovery, and understand the importance of regular screenings. He lobbied for AEDs on-site at sporting venues and mandatory CPR training for coaches and staff, knowing firsthand how critical these lifesaving measures were.

“This is about saving lives,” he told an audience during one of his many speaking engagements. “We owe it to our athletes—our children—to be prepared.”

Incorporating Holistic Well-Being

Lawrence’s coaching style evolved. While he still honed technique and encouraged competitive ambition, he also emphasized mental health and stress management. He taught athletes that resilience wasn’t just about pushing through pain on the track—it was about nurturing the mind, caring for the heart, and knowing when to rest.

Community Engagement 

The Columbia community rallied around Lawrence. Former athletes, now adults, reached out to thank him for the indelible lessons he had taught them. Parents appreciated his renewed focus on safety, and local organizations partnered with him to host CPR training sessions and health fairs.   

“Every heart matters,” he said. “This is a universal truth, not limited by borders.”

Faith and Family as the Foundation

Throughout his journey, faith remained Lawrence’s guiding light. Blending scripture with health education and motivational speaking, he encouraged congregations to embrace holistic wellness. Families found solace and inspiration in his message that caring for one’s body was another way of honoring God.

At home, his children continued to thrive. Cupid expanded his clothing brand and incorporated wellness awareness into his products. Jordin embraced resilience on and off the basketball court. Josiah plans to use his love of math and running to inspire younger athletes. Grace, the miracle child, remained a constant reminder of why Lawrence cherished his second chance at life.

A Legacy That Endures

Coach Lawrence Terry’s life and work transcend athletics. He is a survivor, a mentor, and a builder of futures. From the moment his heart stopped to the countless hearts he has touched since, his story exemplifies how adversity can become a catalyst for purpose.

His impact is felt in every family that learns CPR, in every athlete who trains with both heart and mind, and in every community that prioritizes health and holistic well-being. His race is one without a finish line—an ongoing journey of service, faith, and resilience.

“Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back,” he says, “it’s about moving forward with purpose. Together, we can create a world where every heart is strong enough to keep running.”

And so he continues, forging a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Lawrence Terry is not just a coach who survived—he is a champion of life, teaching us all that with faith, community, and unyielding determination, we can overcome anything and inspire others to do the same.