For those of you who have followed my blog, you have had a chance to come along on my journey through learning I am hard of hearing.
It has been an amazing journey.
It gets even more amazing for me.
You see my nephew, Arthur, was born with an hearing loss too! Arthur is the same age as my oldest daughter, and quite honestly has been like a brother to my kids.
I was blessed to have Arthur with me daily for the first years of his life. After he and his mom moved to a different town, and we moved various places, Arthur would come and stay with us nearly each summer for extended times.
To say that Arthur is almost like a sibling is an understatement.
Arthur has grown into a fine young man, and now plays football for the University of North Carolina 49ers football team.
Just before I found out I about my own hearing loss, I asked Arthur if I could interview him for a special guest blog post. I am now getting around to writing it.
So with out further adieu I would like you to meet Arthur Hart! My very awesome nephew, who is more like a son to me than a nephew, and what has lead him to the opportunity to be play for the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Who in your life affected where you are today?
My dad, Jeff, played a major role in getting me the opportunities to play college football.
My mom showed me wisdom and love. She has always influenced every choice and encourages me in what ever endeavor.
My cousin KJ and I are like brothers.
 |
| KJ and Arthur |
You guys helped raise me. I'm so grateful for the childhood you gave me. I struggle to explain my relationship with your family to other people because they aren't just my cousins.
Stoney is still one of my favorite places in the world because of them.
How did your disability affect you growing up?
My disability made me tough. Due to the way I was raised, I wasn't allowed to use my hearing as an excuse to not do the things I wanted to do.
Arthur can you share with us your high school experience?
I went to an all deaf high school where I learned sign language.
Being at that school was the first time I was around other kids who were like me. It was nice to be in a world where I was so comfortable.
How did you maintain the drive that you needed to get where you are today?
My coaches, Jimmy Garner and Michael Daze always told me that I could do things differently and that I could be the first kid in school history to earn a full scholarship for football.
But they didn't treat me like I was special. They pushed me like every other kid on the team too.
What has your college experience on a football team been like?
It has been tough! Everyone treats me like a normal football player. I do miss things from time to time, but my teammates will back me up and repeat information to me if I miss something.
Have any of your team mates learned sign language? Do you have an interpreter?
I have taught a lot of them some signs.
I use an interpreter for classes but not for football.
What are your goals after college?
I am majoring in communications with a minor in psychology.
I hope to make it into the NFL.
If you had one message you would like to give to others what would it be?
If you find strength in your weakness, your weakness will become your strength.
Thank you Arthur for sharing your story with us! We love you!
