Jordan Thomas was recently chosen as one of this year's "Top 10 CNN Heroes" for his work with the Jordan Thomas Foundation, which he founded at age 16 and has since raised more than $400,000 to provide prosthetics for children in need. Thomas, a double amputee himself, will be awarded $25,000 - and is eligible for the $100,000 award that will be bestowed upon the CNN Hero of the Year later this month at a star-studded gala in Hollywood. You can read more about Thomas' journey from his accident to his life's work at CNN.com/Heroes. On the CNN Heroes fan page, you can grab a voting widget (to vote for Jordan!). Voting is open until November 18th.
CNN Heroes: www.CNN.com/Heroes
44 comments:
Jordan Thomas, a 20 year old junior in college, makes use of two prosthetic legs after suffering but surviving a boating accident at the tender age of 16 and is now being considered a nominee for CNN Hero. I want to say that as soon as I read his story and how he is making a difference in children in a similar situation as his I got online and voted immediately. I would say that many are not as fortunate as Jordan to have the financial possibilities to purchase the necessary prosthesis throughout the years of much growth. Nevertheless the fact that his foundation is focused on helping those children that do not have the financial means for the care and prosthetics needed during the most crucial time of adjustment and growth is beyond wonderful. I was aware that prosthetics were pricy but $10,000 each really surprised me since it is much more than I had originally heard but I suppose it also has to do with the area you purchase them since differences are possible. I wish Jordon the best and pray that many more children will be blessed through the Jordan Thomas Foundation. Gloria P.
What can I say? Awesome! Can you believe that a young man decided to start his own foundation to help others in his same situation? Yes, I guess I do. There are some pretty extraordinary folks out there. Lucky for us. I did read some of the other contenders’ profiles on the CNN homepage, and they are amazing too. But I will definitely root for Jordan as well because it’s apparent that he is a worthy contender. Yes, prosthetics are EXPENSIVE. And so providing others with this assistive technology is a great gift. What’s amazing is that this boy had two paths to choose from after his boating accident. One, he could’ve wallowed in self-pity. Two, he could’ve used this personal experience to benefit others. Luckily, he chose number two. He is a great inspiration for others who suffer from these accidents and end up with a disability that they were never prepared for.
Oops...forgot to include my name at the end. What can I say? Awesome! Can you believe that a young man decided to start his own foundation to help others in his same situation? Yes, I guess I do. There are some pretty extraordinary folks out there. Lucky for us. I did read some of the other contenders’ profiles on the CNN homepage, and they are amazing too. But I will definitely root for Jordan as well because it’s apparent that he is a worthy contender. Yes, prosthetics are EXPENSIVE. And so providing others with this assistive technology is a great gift. What’s amazing is that this boy had two paths to choose from after his boating accident. One, he could’ve wallowed in self-pity. Two, he could’ve used this personal experience to benefit others. Luckily, he chose number two. He is a great inspiration for others who suffer from these accidents and end up with a disability that they were never prepared for.
Vanessa C. (6345)
All I could say is that people like Jordan Thomas inspire me everyday. Reading about his story and all of what he has and is still doing makes me love my career more and more. Stories like this shows everybody that we can all do something to contribute to the well being of others. These stories make us in the rehabilitation services field believe more in our job and benefits our job brings to others. Furthermore, after reading all his story, I went on and voted for him for CNN hero. Those one hundred thousand dollars will be of a lot of help for Jordan and his dreams. I also read the other participants' stories, however, in my opinion Jordan deserves the money more than anyone else. The prostheses are very expensive and this money will be of a lot of help for Jordan to make happy endings in other stories.
Gabriela L
I was extremely touched by the story of Jordan Thomas especially since he himself was able to overcome an accident that left him needing prosthetics and instead of giving up on life, he was actually motivated to make a difference in the lives of others who can not afford prosthetics by starting an organization. I touches me more to see how young he was when he started this organization and the success he has had in being a hero for so many others. Although there were other touching stories on CNN, I have to admit I voted for Jordan Thomas. This story especially touched my heart because I work with children with disabilities for the school district and have seen that due to poverty and SES many of our children do not have the appropriate assistive technology they need to live normal adequate lives. We are actually fundraising now for a child who immigrated from Mexico, thus his family does not qualify for medicaid and cannot afford insurance. His ears are attach, so he needs a surgery to open them and then needs hearing implants. The school has given him bone conduction devices, but due to the stigma placed on him by some peers he always has his head covered or lets his hair grow long to cover them...its sad, but we just found a doctor who would volunteer the work. N E ways, its always great to here that there are people in this world who dedicate there lives to bettering the lives of others who are at a disadvantage.
adriana correa REHS 6345
That is great and I will be cheering for Jordan as well! As somebody that has worked with people with disabilities in the past, I understand how expensive prosthetic devices can be and how important they are to the user! The cost is high, but the rewards are priceless:) I was happy to see this posting, as it makes me think of what happens when a young individual stands by what he believes in and makes a difference!!
Amber Feist
As individuals go this young man has shown the world that it is not enough to say you would like to help but he goes beyond the words and shows that it is need for people to stand up and take apart in society in helping others who are in need we as individuals need to understand that everyone around us is our brother and sister and if they need help it is our responsibility to lend a helping hand. If the world was filled with people like Jordan Thomas we would live in a society that would change the face of the earth in positive ways.
I am so proud of this young boy from Chattanooga Tennessee Jordan Thomas, and also of his parents because they are giving him the support not only to fight for himself but to launched a fundraising foundation to provide life changing prosthetic to children in need.
It is obvious that Jordan has a good heart, and helping others is only one way that shows it. Instead of focusing on his pain he looked outside himself and realized that there are others in the same situation as his, but without the resources to get the expensive prosthesis, and he is doing everything in his powers to help them. I wish we have more Jordan Thomas in this word. I voted for him and I wish that he touches as more lives as possible with his foundation. Good luck to Jordan.
Mary Thomas.
It is so incredible that one person who is so young sould start such an inspiring organization. It is true that if a person is not directly affected with certain situations, in which they may need a prosthesis or acquired any kind of disability or cancer, is when they start acknowledging that such things do occur. I can say this by personal experience with a family member who was diagnosed with cancer in such a young age, and believe me I had never thought about cancer or any disability until this happened to a family member. Now, to help children with cancer and their family, my family and I save the coke can openers from regular aluminum coke cans, in which they are then given to Driscoll Childrens Hospital, and they get funds depending on the amount of coke can opener they receive, however, this is something that never crossed our families mind until we were affected by it. I can sincerly say that this young man deserves to be the Hero for TNT because he's been able to help young children who need these prosthesis, yet their insurance only covers one/fifth of the cost. I wish Jordan Thomas a great life and hopefully his foundation will help many more children in need, and I just hope that more people like Jordan become aware of these situations and like Jordan step up and help solve many problems.
Nancy Lozano
The role models of the world are individiuals like Jordan Thomas. I admire the devotion and committment invested in assisting children with disabilities. Jordan's success demonstrate's his accomplishments as young man. The experience of losing both lower limb caused by the boat propeller was such a traumatic accident. Jordan was treated at the Rider Trauma Rehab. Unit is great to have such a positive outcome. My heart goes out to all three children and thankful to Jordan assiting the children and the families. Alaina who lost both lower limbs caused by a farming accident. She was provided with the prothetic's for both lower limbs. Noah suffered a congenital heart disease losing his right leg due to medical complications that occured after four surgeries. Noah was provided with a right prothesis. Daniel who lost his left arm in a motocycle accident. Daniel was assisted with a myo-electric prostetic arm. Jordan, has allowed the three children with the prosthesis to be able to perform daily activities. Jordan has impacted the childrens lives in a positive manner. Jordan is an "Angel" who the children may look up to. My opinion is that we need more people in society that care about children. To participate in non-profit organizations to obtain funding. There is such a financial demand for medical expenses and prosthetic devices.
It’s great to hear there are still good caring people out there who still care about other people even though that person themselves are going through a hard time. I think the work Jordan Thomas is doing is such a good thing especially if he’s willing to help other children that are going through the same difficult challenges. It must be hard for a 20 year old in college to have two prosthetic legs but Jordan took the positive side and is using it to help other kids. I admire people like him! I wish him the best luck and I believe many children will be blessed by him.
Tanya :o)
Jordan Thomas is indeed a hero, he sure has my vote. He had a tragic accident that led him to lose his both legs. Jordan had to get prosthetic legs; he comes from a financial stable family where he got the top of the line prosthetics. It is great! What he is doing for children who cannot afford the prosthetics they are very expensive. I can’t help but wonder if this accident did not happen to Thomas will he still be the person he is today? Would he still have this foundation? In the CNN article he stated, “I had no clue," he said. "It's one of those things, unless you're affected by it, you just don't know." Never the less everything happens for a reason, and he is an angel to many children who he has touched and blessed them with a prosthetic. I wish him the best in his foundation and I hope he wins the CNN hero.
Erika P
I think of these children as very unique cases. For the most part, children/teenagers do not get to the point that Jordan did. Having the support from his parents is amazing. I think I read that he had a good support system since his parent were financially stable at the time of the accident, which allowed him to get immediate attention and the prosthesis needed.
The other thing I find unique is Jordan's coping mechanisms. He started his foundation shortly after his accident and seems to be successful at attracting help from others. In a case like his, not all children or teenagers adapt to the feelings of anxiety of such a traumatic event with such a higher level of defense mechanisms. In psychoanalytic terms this can be seen as sublimation of anxiety through altruism. From some readings, I remember Humor and Altruism as higher level defense systems or mechanisms. Not all children adjust to disabilities in the way Jordan did, so this young man should be an example to others who go through similar circumstances.
Leila
Stories like this really make us feel like we may take what we have for granted. I mean there are many people out there that require some prosthetic device but are unable to get it due to financial difficulties. It may seem extreme but by Jordan helping that boy get a decent prosthetic limb the child was able to do everyday activities better. This in a way saved the child from any negative self thought, insecurities or isolation that may have come up in the future. It can take effect on a child’s mother as well. We read how the mother would have difficulty getting her son in a car seat and how his leg stuck out. Through Jordan’s foundation and donations this child was helped in an enormous way.
Joseph G.
There is much to say about a young man who has been through as much as he has, and is still willing to give to others who are where he was several years ago. It’s awesome to see that he has not let his age be a hindrance to him, as he seems to be wise beyond his years. Many “kids” his age are more worried about drinking, drugging and getting lucky than they are with helping those around them who are in “need”. He is an example to all of us. Jordan seems to be the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back if it meant you’d be better off. I wonder if his altruistic tendencies were mitigated by his accident, or if he’s always been as generous as he seems to be. None-the-less, he’s a hero in my book, and it seems to be that CNN agrees.
--Elizabeth C.P.
Speechless....... I can't help but to remember a conference I attended this summer. While discussing the generations in the workplace, the speaker commented that this generation (composed of the population 30 and below) is marked by one characteristic, Volunteerism. When i think about the fact that this generation is one that wants to give, it is not surprise that a growth is taking place in the Rehabilitation field. It saddens me to see that insurance companies do not see the need. Most of all it is sad that they would be inconsiderate of human life because of money. It was also interesting to hear that prosthetics needed to be replaced every year and a half. Awareness needs to take place in order for the community to understand the importance of this issue and the need that goes with it. Hats off to Jordan Thomas. May we all one day have that drive to give. I was amazed by the fact that he submersed himself in the process of prosthetic maintenance and development. Talk about therapy. Not only is he giving, but learning so that he may give. I wish that all of the Heroes were honored. Unfortunately he did not get the $100,000 but hopefully the exposure he received will motivate people to join the cause. All the people honored at the awards ceremony were so inspirational. I plan to follow the next campaign. It is a great way to find out what new organizations are out there so that we may support them. Who knows, maybe one day we will need their assistance.
Jordan Thomas is a remarkable individual for helping others who may be in the same situation as his, who more to know what an individual with this type of disability needs than him. He is very fortunate to have the financial ability to fund his prosthesis, and it is great that he acknowledges others as not being as fortunate as he is. I definitely hope the foundation continues to grow and continue to raise money for children in need.
Ruby Quesada
It is truly amazing that the result of a tragedy for a 16 year old teenager did not stop him there. I have heard people with disabilities say that they would not change their disability even if they could. It is hard to understand but then again the disability made their life go a different path. For Jordan it was helping less fortunate children buy prosthetic legs. It is a real blessing that Jordan and his family did not spend so much time getting depressed over the situation but instead did something to help other less fortunate children. The article states that by the time Jordan got home he already had the foundation set up and had bracelets for sale. Hopefully our government will make a law that will benefit people and that the Jordan Thomas Foundation continue to help people with prosthetics.
--Melchora Gracia--
This is an awesome story; its amazing that Jordan started this foundation at the age of 16. Situations like these prove that one person can make a difference. Just look at the $400,00 that have been raised by this foundation for children in need of prosthetics. Prior to this article, I had never looked into how expensive prosthetics are, but now that I have done my research I know that they are very expensive. I guess you never know until it direclty affects you or a loved one. Which is why it makes perfect sense that Jordan to start this foundation because he himself had to experience this first hand.
I’ve learned that it’s not what happens to us that makes a difference, but how we choose to live our lives after that makes the difference. I truly believe that Jordan Thomas is a prime example of how a positive attitude can make the world of difference. Many in his situation would have just worried about themselves and what they needed to do to make their lives better, but Jordan saw the whole picture. He saw and understood, at the age of 16, that not everyone had the finances that he had and he wanted to make a difference. I am excited that Jordan was selected as this year’s Top 10 CNN Heroes. It truly is amazing that his Foundation has raised so much money to provide prosthetics for so many children in need.
Wow!! Is there possibly anything else one can say to this?? This story made me think of oh so many different things that at times you really don't give thought to. $24000 for prosthetics? Are you kidding me?! Each day I discover the importance of the 'little' things that make a great difference in the lives of people with disabilities. "I had no clue," he said. "It's one of those things, unless you're affected by it, you just don't know." (Jordan Thomas). I think this is exactly what many of us can say when it comes to the new things we become aware about. Obviously, going through something like this will never create the same impact if you just know about it. Nevertheless, people like Jordan, young people like him really boost you up to keep going in this field and not only this but to have a heart of service for others. -Eliana M.
This is a very significant individual, being that he raised $400,000 since the age of 16. Remarkable people like this should be rewarded and I am rooting for him to get that award. Although it would be great if he did get the award, I do not think this will define what type of person he is. Jordan used his life experiences to help individuals like himself; prosthetics are very expensive and many people cannot afford them, so I feel what he is doing with his fundraising is remarkable. I agree with a previous post about him having two paths he could have taken. When anything dramatic happens in one’s life, usually there are paths that they can take and many do not take the path that is right for them. He chose to do something for others that can help them as well as himself. I think it helps him to work with people that are like him so that he could know that he is not alone; which I’m pretty sure he already knows that.
Elizabeth G (REHS 6345)
Wow! I can't believe that a 20 year old could raise so much money. That's just Awesome! It's very good to know that someone like him is making a difference in someone's life. Being a double amputee himself, I'm glad that Jordan did not quit on himself after his tragic accident. Many times people after suffering such accidents just quit on themselves or fall into depression for many months or even years. Because they might feel useless or that it can be the end of the world for them. I just hope that Jordan wins the $100,000 later this month. I will definitely vote for him.
Sylvia Garza
What amazing individuals the good Lord puts on this earth. While others may have become severely challenged with such an obstacle in life, Jordan Thomas prevailed. What was meant to be a relaxing day with the family quickly turned into a devasting and life alterning accident. After having to legs amputated right above the knee Jordan realized that he was a very fortunate individual to have the financial needs to acquire prosthetic legs. Jordan than began his journey in life to try and help others that were less fortunate and unable to financialy afford such prosthetics. What Jordan has done and is continueing to do is amazing and I am sure life rewarding. It really takes a strong person to achieve such goals in life after a tragedy has hit,m but it is very true in what Jordan says, "anyone can accomplish anything if you set your mind to it and believe in yourself."
I find it nerve wrecking that many insurance companies will not cover suitable prosthetics for these individuals who are in need to a normal and comfortable life.
Wow, it is amazing how there is people that not only helps but does a lot more for the community. It is very interesting to know that a young man like him has been helping since he was 16 years old of age. Also, I think he does deserves the nomination as the top 10 hero, but more that that. Any human that helps others is gifted by God. No matter what we can offer, but helping always is very rewarding. We as humans have the obligation of serving in a good way to others. I have also known about other personalities that had help and it is wonderful how they still keep helping until this day.
Ivette Martinez
Wow, it is amazing how there is people that not only helps but does a lot more for the community. It is very interesting to know that a young man like him has been helping since he was 16 years old of age. Also, I think he does deserves the nomination as the top 10 hero, but more that that. Any human that helps others is gifted by God. No matter what we can offer, but helping always is very rewarding. We as humans have the obligation of serving in a good way to others. I have also known about other personalities that had help and it is wonderful how they still keep helping until this day.
Ivette Martinez
Heroes are usually defined by moments of extreme bravery and then they fade out after their roles have been complete. Not Jordan Thomas as he took his moment of strength and shot down the road providing all the help and charity anyone could provide. He has done a wonderful thing and it comes to no surprise that he would be considered for such an award.
Ana R.
I think that it is so great when I read stories about people who take their situations into their own hands. To start a foundation at the age of 16 and to pursue it to make a difference in the lives of people who have the same disability as yourself speaks volumes of a person. I think that Jordan is a great example of how a small act of kindness can become a big act of kindness. I'm sure that when he started this foundation he had no idea that he would affect as many people as he has. It goes to show that anyone can make a difference if they choose to. He didn't let the fact that he had the same disability affect how he could help someone just as he is.
Cassandra (Cassie) Moya
Jordan Thomas is a beak of light in an otherwise dim arena. At the age of 16 he did and accomplished more than problably a majority of those his age. It is breaktaking to see young adolescents do for others at a time when it is so popular to do for themselves. To be selfless in his case should be a motivator to educators, parents, and students alike to know what the true possiblities of the human spirit.
Wow! That is a lot of money and especially because it is for a good cause. This example just shows the need for people with amputated limbs. For a person from the age 16 year old to have to raise this type of money, it is obvious that there is not enough government funding being spent on people with amputated limbs. I do not personally know anyone with an amputated limb so i cant even begin to imagine the high cost of health care. I think that the government should consider looking into these types of cases and consider them as high priority.
medical aspects fall 09
It is so great to read such a wonderful story. It is very humbling to see that someone that has gone through such a life changing situation decides to look at the bright side of things and help others that are in need like he was. He is making a big difference in the lives of a lot of children that are in need of prosthetics I just wonder what else he will do to help others that are in need in the future.
Blanca Perez
Talk about a name of a someone meant for great things! I think what he did was very honorable, and self-sacrificing. I bet if I interviewed him, he would answer every question with modesty. I can't even raise two thousand dollars for my annual family reunion, nevertheless four hundred thousand dollars. He was obviously raised good, since at age sixteen was selfless enough and smart enough to start a foundation that helped children get funded for prosethetic limbs. I can just image what else I'm going to be hearing from him later. I hope they're all great things like these.
It is so impressive when a younger person is imacted through their personal experiences to help others. This just goes to show that we can all impact somebody no matter what our age is. What Jordan Thomas has shared with other children is a chance for hope and the ability to be an example no matter what the disability may be.
G@bby S
WOW, thats amazing! Just to think about that someone who is younger than me has accomplished a whole lot more than I have. Im very proud of Jordan for taking that initiative to raise all that money for people who are in need of prosthetics. It makes me wonder if Jordan wouldnt of had that accident that changed his life would he had started this fund raiser? Its very amazing how a disability can make you do things that you never had planned for. Miguel Garza
That is great! Jordan Thomas is one of those few individuals that will truly make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.It is awesome that at such a young age he is already making such a difference and inspiring lives. With todays generation we need individuals like Thomas to show others how to truly care for others and make a positive impact.
-Bibiana Medina
WOW! I am impressed, not because of the nomination in CNN, but because of the impact he has made for others who use prosthetics, and he was just 16 years old when he started! I believe Jordan Thomas's contribution to others, especially beginning from such a young age, has impacted many people in ways that we can't even imagine. He manged to provide help to people who might have felt helpless and hope to people who might have felt hopeless. It is re-assuring to see that there are people out there who realize what an impact they can make and that it does not matter who you are and if you have a disability or not. The fact that he did this is impressive, not because he uses prosthesis himself, it is because he affects the lives of others when they most need it. He is truly a hero for providing that support. The financial implications of an amputation are many, not only medical wise, but the cost of therapy and a prosthesis can be as discouraging as anything else. This foundation helps with that and this makes Jordan Thomas a hero. Congratulations!- Leivy S. Resendiz
I admire this 20 year olds commitment to helping a very noble cause. I think he understands what many of these individuals with disabilities go through. He himself wears prosthetics so he understands people with disabilities at a deeper level than those who do not have a disability. Not to say that if you don't have a disability you can never understand what a person with a disability is going through. I think that Jordan Thomas has just been in the shoes of some of these people he is now helping, it is truly admirable what he is doing.
-bibiana medina
To be a founder of an organization at age 16 and have raised more than $400,000 in funds for children who are in need of prosthetics is amazing! This only gives us, who are becoming or are professionals even more encouragement to want and keep making a difference in this world the way we know and can. I myself have organized fundraisers and drives of different sorts as a teen in high school and know how much work it takes to make them successful including the need for others to help you meet those goals. For this young man to have raised that much and have made his own organization and a more specific one for children in need prosthetics is just wonderful to see. It takes a lot of courage and passion to do something like this. I hope that he continues to serve as an example to other children,young adolescents and adults whether they have a disability or not. This only shows that anyone, no matter how young, can make such a huge and positive difference in other lives too. Let us not underestimate the change and difference we and others can make in our jobs, school and within our environment just like that of Jordon.
Heather Bocanegra
Jordan Thomas is an excellent example of someone who does not dwell on his tragedy. On the contrary, he constructed a new form of living with his disability; not allowing the negative aspects of his disability affect or influence his life. Instead, he found a new meaning of life by helping others who are in his same situation. He enlarged his scope of values and looked beyond his own "tragedy" by establishing an organization to help children by providing them a "normal" form of daily living through the use of prosthetics but he is teaching them that they are more than a disability. their disability should not define who they are; that their dreams can be accomplished and lead a self-fulfilling life.
A.Huerta
It is success stories such as the Jordan Thomas that brings a tear to my heart. It is rare to find such a young person turn a traumatic experience into a positive one for the benefit of others. I’ve known several persons who have a prosthetic or need one and they have sad stories to say about their disability because they feel ‘worthless’. Jordan on the other hand, managed to create his experience into a positive one, which is helping many lives. I’m very happy Jordan created his foundation to help many children that need prosthetic limbs because there are many out there who do not come from a financially stable family such as Jordan’s, who can afford limbs that cost as much as a new vehicle! Thomas’ work is certainly a positive example for all of us!
C. Cardona
I think Jordan Thomas is well deserving of being called a hero or a great philanthropists of today’s society. It takes a lot of a person to give not only themselves, or their time but the career to helping others who have disabilities and are in need. Raising more than $400,000 to help children in need with amputations and help him get the prosthetics the need in order to walk again and have a life outside of a wheelchair. How many of us in today’s society are willing to give up our time to help another person much less devote our life to raising money and being an advocate for children with amputations. I find it difficult to say that I would have the same fortitude to live with my own disability as a double amputee, and then find it in my heart to devote my life to helping others with amputations. I do hope that I’ll be able to help, and that I would be able to do at least part of what this individual and so far done.
Good job Jordan! So many times we hear adults complain about teenagers, but I think Jordan proves that even young people can be champions for a cause and lead a movement of change. To start a foundation at such a your age is amazing and to do it for such a worthy cause is even more amazing. I predict that he will use his winnings to further the work of his foundation. Prosthetics can be so very expensive and children have physical and psychological reasons for wanting a prosthetic and it is wonderful that Jordan has done something for such a special and unique population.
Cindy V.
When I listen to stories like this one, it makes me realize how special this boy’s heart is. He really made the best of what somebody else could call a tragedy. Sometimes, we don’t know why things happen, but when we find a purpose, everything changes. He is doing a great job helping other kids raise money to finance their prosthesis.
Good for you Thomas!
L.M.Lastra
WEll, it is a privelage to have read about this young man. His efforts and determination have been astonishing and impacting for me. I have a yougner brother who has a prosthetic and can only be more than greatful for this young man. Perhaps his fund raising has impacted me directly through my family and an humbled by his efforts. My brother's prothesis is about 25.000. Our family would never have been able to afford such a prie tag. We are greatful to all those such as jordan who make efforts to help others.
Eddie Reyes
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