At the 52nd annual NAACP Image Awards, the Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture award went to Chadwick Boseman for his role in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” his last. It’s hard to believe we live in a world where he is no longer with us. Boseman’s wife, Simone Boseman, accepted the prestigious honor on his behalf. Once they cut from the presenter, Regina King, they cut to Simone, who was emotional. “As always, he would give honor and glory to the most high God. He would thank his mom and dad and give honor to the ancestors,” Simone started emotionally.

Even after his death, Boseman's talent continued to shine, beating out greats like Delroy Lindo, Forrest Whitaker, Will Smith, and Anthony Mackie. Simone continued, “Thank you NAACP Image Awards for always giving him his flowers. He was an uncommon artist and an even more uncommon person.” 

Losing Boseman to colon cancer still hurts four years later. During her emotional acceptance speech, Simone took time to shed light on the devastation of colon cancer. “Black people in this country are 20% more likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer and 40% more likely to die from it,” Simone fought through her emotions to share.

The screening age for colon cancer has recently been lowered to 45. Simone urged any and everyone who could, to get screened. “This disease is beatable if you catch it in its early stages. You have no time to waste. Be proactive about your health. Know the signs, listen to your body,” Simone shared. “Please, you are so needed and so loved.”