It’s not often one hears of players transferring from Eastern Illinois to Alabama.

This offseason, Mike Bernier was determined to return closer to home to be closer to his mother, who is batting breast cancer. Nick Saban offered Bernier a roster spot as a preferred walk-on at Alabama.

Bernier’s mother had her birthday this week, and she’s especially appreciative of one gift.

Thank you so much to Coach Saban, Mrs.Terry, and the Team for sending these to my mom on her Birthday!!! #RollTide ️ pic.twitter.com/qX8wc0N5g7 — Mike Bernier (@_Itsbernier_) September 21, 2016

Happy Birthday to the sweetest mom in the whole world! I love you with all my heart! I hope you have a great day Mom❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/BAfwbviAif — Mike Bernier (@_Itsbernier_) September 20, 2016

Very thoughtful of the Sabans.