Amniotic band syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that affects anywhere from one in 1,200 to 15,000 live births; its cause is unknown.
The syndrome can occur when the inner layer of the placenta, called the amnion, is damaged during pregnancy. The syndrome has no general outcome, as it affects each person differently.
Shaquem Griffin was diagnosed with amniotic band syndrome at birth. He was a professional football player for the National Football League (NFL). Born in 1995 alongside his twin brother, Griffin had a relatively unique experience straight off the bat.
The condition resulted in the deformity of his left hand, rendering it nonfunctional and eventually leading to its amputation when Griffin was just four years old.
Despite this setback, Griffin began to pursue his passion for football at a young age, never allowing the challenges posed by his disability to hinder him.
Griffin attended the University of Central Florida, where he found a legitimate platform to showcase his skill in football. He earned a spot on the school’s team, where he played as a linebacker.
Griffin’s versatility, speed, and perseverance cemented him as an indispensable member of the team. He became known for his relentless work ethic and leadership on the field.
The moment that set off Griffins’ career in the NFL came during his 2018 NFL Scouting Combine performance, during which he excelled in nearly every drill, setting him apart from the other linebackers.
He clocked a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, ultimately proving that he had the speed and athleticism to compete at the highest level, regardless of his condition. Speaking on his disability, Griffin said, “I’ve never let it be a handicap to me. I’ve always used it as motivation, and I’ve always believed in myself that I can do anything.”
Griffin’s journey in football came to an impressive climax after being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, following the lead of his twin brother who had joined the Seahawks a year prior. His selection was not only a massive personal achievement but an inspirational display of overcoming adversity and persevering in its face.
Over the span of his professional career, Griffin amassed multiple awards, including first-team All-American Athletic Conference linebacker, AAC Defensive Player of the Year, National Champion and Peach Bowl MVP, and others.
During his first year in the NFL, he accepted the NFL Game Changer award and is currently one of two people to hold the title. The award officially recognizes a member of the football family who has positively contributed to the sport and his or her community.
For three seasons, Griffin played for the Seahawks before spending part of the 2021 season with the Miami Dolphins’ practice squad, eventually retiring during the 2022 offseason.
Griffins’ influence did not end after his retirement, however. Post-NFL, he continues to work as an advocate for individuals with disabilities, using his platform to promote inclusion and perseverance.
Griffin has become an icon of resilience, showing that one’s worth is not determined by the challenges they face but by how they respond to those challenges. His journey continues to inspire and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the sports world and beyond.