Making a few mistakes in personal life and on the golf course doesn’t stop Tiger Woods from giving support to a teenager who needs it.
Tiger Woods recently offered his support to a young fan, Dillon, who was dealing with being bullied and feeling isolated, because of his stutter. Tiger wrote him the following :
“Dear Dillon,
Someone told me that you like watching me play golf. I really appreciate that, and I also wanted to say how proud I am of you.
I know what it’s like to be different and to sometimes not fit in. I also stuttered as a child and I would talk to my dog and he would sit there and listen until he fell asleep. I also took a class for two years to help me, and I finally learned to stop.
I was younger than most of the kids I competed against and often I was the only minority player in the field. But, I didn’t let that stop me, and I think it’s even inspired me to work harder. I know you can do that too.
You have a great family, and big fans like me on your side.
Be well and keep fighting. I’m certain you’ll be great at anything you do.”
♦◊♦
Dillon who was recovering from a broken leg, an injury from his attempted suicide, said:
“On Saturday, I got a letter from Tiger! He told me that he used to stutter too. We are going to frame the letter. We have never seen a golf tournament in person, only on TV. I told my mom that when my leg gets better, I think that would be a fun thing to do.
Don’t like ads? Become a supporter and enjoy The Good Men Project ad freeI hope that maybe one other person out there that is also having struggles, will hear my story and realize suicide is not the answer and maybe it can help them.
I just acted on impulse and now wish that I hadn’t. I was just tired of feeling small and like I didn’t matter. I know that I do matter with the help of my family and friends like you to support me.”
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♦◊♦
It is wonderful to see someone so famous take the time to support a fan in need.
Well done, Tiger!
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The Good Men Project Sports’ Tuesday weekly feature, Doing It Right, highlights athletes who gives back and/or make a difference in our society.
Photo Credit: Flickr/Keith Allison