Image of Dawson hitting a punching bag at a boxing gym

November 4, 2022

Having an activity that a child can call their own is priceless.  That could not be more true for eight-year-old Dawson, who has low vision.

He no longer wanted to sit by while other children were having fun and excelling at sports.  Not by his choice, you could find Dawson sitting on the sidelines during his brother’s and sister’s after-school activities wishing for something that he could fully participate in and shine among his friends. His wish has now come true because of donors like you.

Earlier this year, Dawson’s mother, Gina, discovered Clovernook Center’s Youth Adaptive Sports and Leisure Program.  It was the first time Dawson could compete in sporting events at his level without fear of failing.  Now, he can actively participate in adaptive skiing, rock climbing, boxing and other sports.

“Dawson loves that he has something that he can go to and feels comfortable doing,” said Gina, Dawson’s mother.

Dawson has nystagmus, which affects his depth perception and prevents him from seeing three-dimensional shapes.  His visual impairment doesn’t play a role in hindering Dawson’s energic spirit, which accelerates from zero to ten in seconds, or affects his adventurous side in trying new activities.  When he isn’t scaling walls, Dawson enjoys playing Minecraft, swimming, bouncing on a trampoline, traveling, going to Kings Island, and playing with friends in his neighborhood.

Because you gave Dawson the opportunity to compete, socialize and feel included in sporting activities, his confidence and self-esteem have soared.

“People have no idea of the impact that it can have on these children’s lives and to be able to give them a sport that is theirs is everything to them,” said Gina.

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