K-LOVE’s Positive People – by Rafael Sierra, Jr. (complete podcast available) (more Positive People stories)
Melissa Clarke-Wharff wanted her son Jack who is disabled to have fun like other kids his age. So, Melissa began Can Play, an organization that lets kids with health and special needs issues play sports and have lots of fun.
“These kids all deserve to play and be active just like anybody else.”
Jack suffered six strokes when he was just 8 years old, which left his left him with cognitive delays, partial paralysis and ‘limited ability to play.’ Can Play gives kids like Jack “a place that they can come, be themselves, learn about their bodies and what their bodies can do.”
Melissa says families are often told how their kids will not be able to do certain things. But with Can Play, they show kids they ‘can do it,’ no matter what.
Melissa says it has been “awe inspiring” to see Jack work to overcome his challenges. She admits getting her strength from Jack, looking at the confidence and inspiration he conveys despite his physical setbacks.
“You can do this, stay strong,” says Jack. He reminds others even he had bad days, but to keep working hard at what they do and to “never give up.”
Listen to the full interview below