Cheering for Larry Miller

The news that Jazz owner Larry H. Miller had both legs amputated below the knees, this week, saddened me, but didn’t surprise me. Having my own family history of diabetes ? one of the reasons for Miller’s surgery ? has given me considerable insight.

It bothered me mostly because I thought last summer’s health troubles — which included a heart attack, kidney failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, foot ulcers, a bone infection and other related problems — should have been enough for him. Not that I doubt he can overcome it. Miller is nothing if not competitive.
Whether it’s fast-pitch softball (he used to be a top-level pitcher), NBA basketball, selling cars or beating health problems, he isn’t the type to back down from a challenge.

And he nearly always comes out on top.

The news got me thinking about Miller’s contributions to Utah. It’s not just that he saved the Jazz and kept them here. He maintained pro hockey until a buyer could be found. He contributed to athletic programs at the colleges. He employed thousands in his car dealerships, restaurants and other business ventures.

He made the Jazz available on KJZZ television, built Energy Solutions Arena, founded a world class motor sports park, and contributed to the construction of Franklin-Covey Field. He also bought the Salt Lake Bees.

Miller has always been straightforward, entertaining and — even though he has had his controversies — upbeat.

That doesn’t even account for the countless times he visited hospitals, donated services and cars for charitable events, etc.

If there is anyone who has better used his money to make life better in his community, I’d like to know about it.

Before many sporting events, an announcement is made to the media that there is no cheering in the press box. It’s a distraction, as well as being unprofessional.

Still, when Miller comes back for his first game at Energy Solutions Arena, on his road to recovery, I might end up cheering anyway.

In fact, I’ll probably be the first one out of my seat.