BY LOREN BRANCH

Robin Roberts is currently a host of ABC’s “Good Morning America,” but from 1990 to 2005 she was one of the first female anchors for ESPN. In the past few years, she has battled with two serious illnesses. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2007 and just returned to the air in February after receiving treatment for a rare blood disorder called myelodysplastic syndrome. It is because of her determination to continue bringing life to the world of broadcasting, despite these struggles, that she will receive the Arthur Ashe courage award at the 2013 ESPYS. She will join past honorees, Jim Valvano, Muhammad Ali, Dean Smith, and Pat Summitt.

According to the LA Times, ESPN President John Skipper made the following comments when announcing the award: “Robin brings an amazing amount of energy, compassion and determination to everything she does. Those qualities made her an incredible asset during her time here at ESPN, and they have served her well as she battled the terrible health challenges that she’s had to face. Robin’s accomplishments in so many areas, as an athlete, a broadcaster, a cancer survivor and more, demonstrate her ability to shine regardless of adversity and we could not be more proud to honor her as the recipient of this year’s Arthur Ashe Courage Award.