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.”
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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.
I 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
