It's All About Teamwork.

Photo courtesy of Ryan Matlack

When I stepped onto the mound, in the last inning of the last game of the year, the entire infield came over and joined me. It was one of the most touching moments of my life.  I knew then, that they saw me, not as an old man trying to fulfill a long-lost dream, but as a teammate. I could feel their energy and excitement. I knew that they would work together to do whatever they could to support me. And I knew, that maybe 40 years ago I could've struck out the side, but I knew on that day, that in order for me to pitch a scoreless inning, that I needed my teammates. I knew that I couldn't do it by myself, but I knew that together we could do it as a team.

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Graduation Day: The Impossible Dream Becomes True

Photo courtesy of Sophia Hasenfus

After flunking out of college twice, 40 years previously, because of my then undiscovered learning disabilities, I had the honor of walking in the Springfield College graduation ceremony in May of 2011. I graduated Summa Cum Laude, with a perfect 4.0 straight A grade point average. I am wearing the gold honor cords, signifying that distinction, as well as honor cords from Who's Who Among American College and University Students, and from the Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society for Human Services. I also received the Springfield College Humanics Award. 

This accomplishment was all the more poignant considering the frustration, shame, and hurt which I suffered for most of my life as a result of having dyslexia (can't read), dysgraphia (can't write), dyscalculia (can't do simple math), and Attention-Deficit /Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

My college education, changed my life forever.