Life is a Team Sport If you're a fan of Northwestern University football, you know the mantra "Trust Yourself." This phrase is more than a mindset; it's a commitment to overcoming adversity. It's a mantra that the players reflect on as they tap the motivational board upon entering the field. I met Scotty last year through his mother, Catherine. Our careers in healthcare brought us together, leading to the discovery that my son attends and plays football at Northwestern University, the alma mater of Catherine and her husband, Jeff. Our shared passion for community, the cause we serve, and Northwestern football strengthened our connection. In getting to know the family, I learned about Scotty’s unique abilities and challenges. Born with Lissencephaly, also known as "Smooth Brain," Scotty deals with significant physical limitations and profound intellectual and developmental disabilities but maintains a spirited zest for life. He is an avid Northwestern football fan, cheering for his team each season. April is a particularly special month for Scotty and his family as it includes his birthday—a significant milestone considering his parents were initially told he might only live until the age of two. Each year, they host "Scotty’s Kegger," a thank-you party for their network of family, friends, therapists, coworkers, and neighbors. What started with a few cases of beer has evolved into an annual kegger, now attracting over 100 attendees. Throughout the football season last year, we exchanged messages weekly. My son even sent a few videos to the family, reminding us all that life, like football, is a team sport—we are always stronger together. The mantra "Trust Yourself" has taken on new depth for me. While we may not choose the challenges that come our way, we do own our responses and the steps we take forward. Jeff, Catherine, Scotty, Jeffrey, and Jenna truly embody this mindset. Happy Birthday, Scotty, and thank you for reminding us what life is truly about: helping each other be our best selves. Life, we believe, is a team effort. As part of Team Scott, I'm committed to supporting the MHMR Foundation this year. Under the EveryDayMatters mission, I'll donate to MHMR for every race I run in our team shirt, aiming for 12 events this year. Despite not being a natural runner, I'm driven by my dedication to Scotty and those we aim to help. To learn more about the organization we are supporting to raise awareness and advocate for families like Scotty's please see the link below. A proud member of Team Scott…Tom ℹ️ MHMR Foundation https://lnkd.in/gSDjx42e ℹ️ EveryDayMatters https://lnkd.in/gH8Xbje6 *shared with permission and in collaboration with #TeamScott #TeamScott #BeTheDifference #StrongerTogether
Go Team Scott and Go Wildcats! 💜
Thank you, Tom!