The Story Behind the Story

I first met David many years ago at a neighborhood cookout. In conversation we quickly found that we had a lot in common; both being teachers, having supportive wives, and being blessed with three wonderful children. We also shared a love for activities like scuba diving and other sports.

Being highly impressed with David and his outlook on life, I invited him to visit my third-grade classroom to speak to my students about the virtue of ‘perseverance.’  His personal story was a lesson on how to meet and overcome life’s challenges.

David was an instant hit with the students (and many of their parents) and his visit became an annual event, even during the restrictive days of Covid when circumstances required us to meet out on the school lawn. Year after year he touched and inspired everyone he met.

Ironically, I have never seen or thought of David as being “disabled” and he continues to amaze me. He was the inspiration and the “push” I needed to start writing and to jump out of a plane with a 240-pound guide strapped to my back.

I soon realized that I needed to share David’s inspiring story with others. I am profoundly humbled and grateful for David’s outlook on life, his ongoing kindness, his friendship, and our many laughs along the way. He has helped me better see, understand, and prepare for my own road ahead.

-Tom