Teen All-Stars: Robinson encourages, inspires others with disabilities

JASON ROBINSON

ABOUT JASON

Parents: James and Erin Robinson

School: Westmoreland Jr.-Sr. High School

Plans for next year: Attending the University of Illinois to major in bioengineering

Career Goals: Bioengineer

Growing up with a developmental disability (Spinal Segmental Dysgenesis) did nothing to curb Jason Robinson's competitive spirit. Quite the contrary. With support from his family, school and community, Jason has become an accomplished wheelchair-bound basketball player and a track and field state champion who continues to spread a "message of perseverance" while explaining to youngsters what adaptive sports are and the importance of inclusion. Devoted to changing the stigma that people with disabilities can't be athletes, Jason and his family started the JRob Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that has provided kids with adaptive sports equipment since 2013.

How much of an impact have your parents made when it comes to your competitive spirit and extraordinary determination?

My parents have always been my biggest supporters. I feel like I get my competitive spirit and determination from them. They have always pushed me to do my best and have shown unconditional love and support through the highs and lows of my sports career. I will never be able to repay what they have given me.

Why is it so important to you to encourage and inspire others with disabilities?

I think it is extremely important to encourage kids with disabilities to chase their dreams no matter how hard they may be. Yes, a disability may have its challenges and obstacles to overcome, however, there are always ways to adapt to the situation and conquer the challenge ahead of you. Hopefully, by encouraging kids with disabilities to try everything and not let anyone stop them, it will help change the image of someone with a disability from someone who is helpless to someone who is just like everyone else.

After high school, how do you hope to continue to spread your message of inclusion?

I plan to continue to be an active part of my community. I plan to continue my role as vice president of the JRob Foundation by teaching elementary and middle school students about adaptive sports and sharing my message of perseverance and the importance of inclusion along the way.

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Teen All-Stars: Robinson encourages, inspires others with disabilities

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