I absolutely love to read the newspaper. Not that I often get the chance to, but when I do, Sundays always offer plenty of fascinating features for the curious reader like myself. Recently, I read Parade Magazine , straight from Sunday’s best. Featured was a “Health Hero”as they call him, and his philanthropic work throughout the health and medical population. Immediately what came to mind is Experea’s ongoing focus on extraordinary, real people living a heroic life despite obstacles.

 

Jordan Thomas, a 22-year-old Rollins College student dedicates his time and energy to a charity he founded, the Jordan Thomas Foundation. In 2005, at the ripe age of 16, Jordan was vacationing with his family in the Florida Keys when a boat propeller encounter left him legless below both knees. Soon after, he began mingling with other young amputees in the hospital and quickly learned that insurers do not cover the costs of prosthetic limbs. Enraged, he decided to do something about it.

Hoping to make a difference in the lives of his fellow amputees, within months of his accident, Jordan created a foundation that aims to raise funds to cover the costs of artificial limbs for children and teens whose families can’t afford them.

Since 2005, the foundation is thriving, having raised nearly $1 million to replace artificial limbs for five children until they’re 18, because growing kids, on average, need new limbs every 18 months.

Jordan’s story inspires me. The list of awards and recognitions credited to him in the last two years alone is impressive. At just 22 years of age, he accomplishes so much through his passion and kindness. It benefits not only amputees who are overcoming some of the same obstacles as him, but also those of us looking for a little inspiration as he shows that you can make a difference…no matter your circumstance.

Want to make a donation? Visit the Jordan Thomas Foundation.

Watch this video of the Jordan Thomas Foundation beneficiaries to see the impact Jordan’s ongoing investment is having on the lives of these five children and their families.

 

 

 

By: Tanza Loudenback
Experea Healthcare Blog Editor