Will’s Why – Giving Tuesday & Beyond

People often ask me why I’m so passionate about supporting the NWBA. It’s simple: wheelchair basketball has certainly changed my life. Click the following link to see a brief video on my journey and purpose. 

That’s why I’m asking you to step up and support the NWBA Giving Season campaign with a contribution of $5, $25, or $100.

I grew up in the inner-city of Chicago in a rough neighborhood where there weren’t a lot of options for kids like me. As a result, I ended up joining a gang and dealing drugs. It wasn’t long before I was shot in a drive-by shooting, on May 23rd 1992. The result was a spinal cord injury, permanent paralysis and chronic leg pain.

After months of medical treatment and rehabilitation, I plunged into a severe depression as I struggled with my disability. Thankfully, a friend convinced me to play wheelchair basketball and, from the first time I played, I fell in love. I was hooked.

Fast forward over twenty years: wheelchair basketball and the NWBA have allowed me the opportunity to earn a college education, meet my wife, build a family, and play with the best 3 letters (USA) across my chest. Furthermore, it taught me the leadership skills that would enable me to have an amazing corporate career. Joe Chambers, can I get a high five for all of that?

This sport changed my outlook, which literally changed my life. As a result, I give back as much as possible. Above all, I hope you will consider helping other people have access to this sport, and their own new path.

Join me in supporting the NWBA Giving Season campaign with a contribution of $5, $25, $100, or whatever you can this giving season and help us change more lives.

If my story has touched you, please share this post with your family and friends. In your own words, ask them to consider supporting this sport / organization as we focus on impacting even more lives.

Will Waller
Board Member, NWBA
2x Paralympic Bronze Medalist