Inclusion Daily Express -- We Can All Celebrate In Wrestler's Journey

Inclusion Daily Express Logo

International Disability Rights News Service
Click here for today's headlines & home page

Keeping advocates informed, inspired and connected since 1999.
Click here for daily or weekly delivery . . . OR
Try Inclusion Daily Express for ten days FREE . . .

We Can All Celebrate In Wrestler's Journey
By Dave Reynolds, Inclusion Daily Express
February 22, 2008

CHILLICOTHE, OHIO--The next time someone asks you whether the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act are working, just remember this name: "Dustin Carter".

Carter, 18, a senior at Hillsborough High School, is the man that wrestling fans and others across Ohio are watching this season.

Carter is the captain of his school's varsity wrestling team. With an amazing record of 35 wins and one loss this season, he is expected to do well at the upcoming district tournament. If he is among the top four wrestlers in his weight class, he automatically goes on to the state tournament.

"My whole goal is to make it to state this year," Carter said earlier this month. "Everything I do in life right now is for that."

When Carter was five years old, doctors amputated his legs below the knees and his arms below the elbows in order to save him from a deadly infection.

While the media has been paying attention to the fact that he wrestles so well without complete limbs, Carter says for him it's all about the sport and the team.

"I've got a lot of wins this year, and I like it when (opponents) say, 'Shoot, I've got to wrestle Carter,'" he said. "I won't lie to you - that makes me feel good."

This ought to make us feel good, too. Carter probably would not have had the opportunity to attend his local high school, much less compete with and lead his teammates, were it not for the anti-discrimination laws that so many fought decades to make a reality.

As Carter moves toward his dream of victory at the state tournament, those who fought to make education inclusive and accessible can also celebrate with him in his journey.

Related:
"Inspirational wrestler focused" includes video clip (Cincinnati Enquirer)
http://www.inclusiondaily.com/news/2008/red/0222g.htm
"Carter keeping his focus on district" (Cincinnati Enquirer)
http://www.inclusiondaily.com/news/2008/red/0222f.htm

Click here for top of this page

Purchase this story for your website or newsletter . . .

Here's what subscribers say about Inclusion Daily Express. . .

Keeping advocates informed, inspired and connected since 1999.
Click here for daily or weekly delivery . . . OR
Try Inclusion Daily Express for ten days FREE . . .

Get your news here!