Never underestimate the impact you can have on someone’s life.

These are words that most of us understand, but until we’re put into this position, it’s difficult to comprehend the magnitude of that feeling.

After I met Zoe, she filled a void in my life I didn’t know was missing. 

Zoe came into my life through Team IMPACT, which is an organization that helps children with serious illnesses or disabilities be involved in college athletics and connected to their local campus community.

I play soccer for Kent State, so when Zoe matched with our team and got the opportunity to be around the program, I enjoyed getting to know her and developing a relationship with her.

What I didn’t know was the major influence she was going to make on my life. 

As my involvement with Team IMPACT grew, I quickly discovered a passion for providing opportunities for children like Zoe to experience the same joy and happiness that every young child deserves.

Zoe has become more than a friend or little sister – she’s become my inspiration. I’ve always loved kids and enjoyed coaching youth soccer, but I’ve never worked with kids with disabilities or illnesses before.

This put an entirely new perspective on my life, and it’s given me a higher purpose beyond the classroom and soccer field as a student-athlete.

Watching her grow

Before last year, I didn’t know anything about Team IMPACT. After our coach explained that we were getting a match through this program, I did some of my own research and learned how incredible this organization is. 

These children have dealt with so much adversity in their lives at such a young age. I know I speak for everyone on the team in saying each one of us could learn from these kids in so many different ways.

I was put in charge of taking the lead in introducing Zoe to the team, showing her around, making her feel welcome, etc., and I jumped at that opportunity. Like I said, I’ve always enjoyed being around kids, so I couldn’t wait to meet Zoe and show her around the team and Kent State.

The most enjoyable part of being around Zoe was watching her grow. From the first time we met, it’s not even a comparison to the girl she is now. She has so much more confidence, and her determination and motivation to conquer her illnesses and enjoy life to the fullest has inspired the entire team.

Her transformation in the time I’ve known her has been nothing short of amazing. We’re beyond blessed to have her on our team, and she’s made us all better people.

A fellowship to remember

After spending a year with Zoe as her match with my Kent teammates, I was approached with the opportunity to become a fellow for Team IMPACT.

Essentially, a fellow is like an ambassador. A fellow’s main role is overseeing the different teams around campus and observing how they connect with their matches.

Another important task is visiting children in various hospitals and connecting with them to see if they’d be interested in the Team IMPACT program.

The time I’ve spent as a fellow within the last year has been beyond gratifying and filled with tremendous experiences. 

One of those experiences that stands out is when I got to go to Boston this past July for an event Team IMPACT was hosting up there.

To be honest, I was a little hesitant about attending the event because I didn’t know anyone. I’m a social person and love talking to people, but still, the thought of flying to Boston by myself and showing up at Boston University not knowing a soul kind of terrified me a bit.

I’m so glad I didn’t let that fear get in my way because it turned out to be one of the best opportunities of my life. 

Not only did I learn more about the organization and the goals and strategies of being a fellow, but I thoroughly enjoyed establishing relationships with fellows from all over the country.

It’s these experiences that make me so grateful to be involved with Team IMPACT and the many ways this organization has enriched my life.

Advocate for empowerment

As the only fellow at Kent State currently, my primary responsibility is to promote Team IMPACT on campus. 

I also believe it’s easy to promote something when you believe in it, and I wholeheartedly believe in what they stand for in giving these remarkable children moments they’ll remember forever.

I know for our game against Akron this season, we’re going to have Zoe walk out with the starting lineup, and her name will get announced over the speaker. 

Since Akron is our big rival, that usually draws a big crowd, so that’ll give plenty of people an opportunity to learn about the organization and how they can help and get involved.

Another big event coming up is the Team IMPACT 5K race on October 1. Our campus goal is to raise $5,000, so the ultimate objective is to spread awareness and help get as many people as possible to sign up and donate.

I’ll do everything in my power to continue to spread the word and promote events like this that help this organization expand and grow because I truly believe they transform lives.

I’ve seen it firsthand with Zoe, and I’ll always be an advocate for empowering children, especially those who are forced to deal with adversity, to overcome their challenges, and live a joyous and prosperous life.

Changing lives forever

There isn’t anything more rewarding than having a direct influence on children’s lives. Kent State and Team IMPACT have given me that opportunity, which has been fulfilling in more ways than I can describe. 

That’s something I’ll always have endless gratitude for.

It’s hard to comprehend what my life was like before I met Zoe because now I can’t imagine it without her. Whether it’s playing hide-and-seek with her and the rest of the team, attending Christmas parties together, or watching her play and run around at practice, she’s become a light in my life.

In the entire team’s life.

When I graduate, some things may change, but I know I’ll continue to keep in touch with Zoe and be there for her whenever she needs me. 

With my future career in medical sales, I’ll be in hospitals constantly, so I’ll also be able to do my part to promote Team IMPACT and the life-changing difference they make every day.

Of the many things I’ve learned at Kent State, what stands out the most is the impact we make together is immeasurable, and I look forward to spreading love and inspiration to as many children as possible to change their lives for the better.

Just as they have changed mine.

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