The Chicago Cubs fanbase is still reeling from the death of legend Ryne Sandberg from cancer. But amidst the grief, a touching story has been shared by his longtime teammate, Shawon Dunston, who says Sandberg was his greatest source of motivation in fighting his own illness.

In a recent interview with Chicago media, Dunston choked up as he recalled memories of his teammate, with whom he had fought alongside for many years at Wrigley Field.

“I saw him fight every day,” Dunston said. “And that made me realize I couldn’t give up. Ryne was a precious inspiration for me to keep fighting.”

Dunston and Sandberg were the iconic defensive duo of the Cubs in the 1980s and early 1990s.

Sandberg at second base, Dunston at shortstop – together they created countless double plays that electrified Wrigley Field.

They were not only teammates on the field, but also close friends off the field.

In Dunston’s eyes, Sandberg was always a calm, disciplined, and humble man – exactly the image Cubs fans remember of him.

“He wasn’t a man of many words,” Dunston recounted. “But when Ryne said something, you knew it was something truly important.”

When Sandberg publicly revealed his battle with cancer, the entire baseball community sent messages of support to one of the Cubs’ greatest icons.

For Dunston, that story held even deeper meaning.

After retiring, Dunston also faced his own serious health problems. The days of treatment and lifestyle changes were not easy.

But the image of Sandberg still bravely fighting his illness made Dunston think differently.

“I think of him whenever I feel tired,” Dunston said. “If Ryne could fight so hard, then I have to do the same.”

In the history of the Chicago Cubs, few players are as revered as Ryne Sandberg.

He was not only the 1984 National League MVP, but also one of the greatest second basemen in baseball history.

Sandberg’s achievements still make Cubs fans proud:

10-time All-Star

9 Gold Glove

Baseball Hall of Fame Member

One of the greatest icons to ever play at Wrigley Field

But for Dunston, Sandberg was more than just a legend.

“To me, he was a friend,” Dunston said. “Someone I always respected.”

When thinking of Sandberg, Dunston doesn’t immediately recall titles or records.

Instead, he remembers the summer days at Wrigley Field, where the two trained together, laughed, and played in front of tens of thousands of fans.

“We played with real joy,” Dunston said. “And Ryne was always the one who kept things right – always focused, always professional.”

Sandberg’s passing has left a huge void in the hearts of Cubs fans.

But according to Dunston, the most important thing his old friend left behind wasn’t the statistics.

It was the fighting spirit.

“Ryne taught us that true strength isn’t just about how you play,” Dunston said. “It’s about how you face life.”

Dunston’s Promise

When asked how he wanted fans to remember Sandberg, Dunston didn’t hesitate.

“As a warrior,” he replied.

Dunston said he would continue to share Sandberg’s story, not only with Cubs fans but also with the younger generation of players.

Because, in his opinion, Sandberg’s legacy lies not just in the Hall of Fame.

It lies in how he inspired those around him – even in the most difficult times.

And for Dunston, his former teammate is still doing just that.

“Even now,” he said softly, “Ryne is still helping me keep fighting.”