Joey Slackman‘s rise from an Ivy League wrestler to an NFL prospect with the Florida Gators is a tale of relentless dedication, both on and off the field.
But what truly sets Slackman apart is not only his achievements in football but his commitment to helping others-especially those battling rare diseases.
A journey fueled by determination
Slackman‘s journey was shaped early on in his household, where the word “can’t” was forbidden.
“In our household, we literally were not allowed to use the word ‘can’t… It was like the equivalent of cursing,” he shared.
This mentality would set the stage for his future success.
Though his junior year didn’t go as planned, Slackman came back strong in his senior year, earning first-team all-state honors. This achievement led to a spot at Penn and later paved the way for his successful career with the Florida Gators.
At Gainesville, Slackman made an impact on the field with 48 tackles and four sacks. However, his journey wasn’t just about football; it was about proving his resilience, determination, and a drive to help others.
Slackman‘s commitment to giving back extends beyond his football career. As he prepares for the NFL, he’s teaming up with Uplifting Athletes to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases.
“95% of #rarediseases lack an FDA-approved treatment. I am teaming up with @UpliftingAth to change that! Join us & pledge for each rep of 225 I put up at @GatorsFB Pro Day,” Slackman posted.
This initiative seeks to address the reality that those with rare diseases often face three times higher medical costs compared to those without.
Slackman’s pledge challenge not only serves as a personal test but as a means to raise funds and awareness for patients and families dealing with these conditions. With each rep he completes, he’s creating an impact far beyond the football field.
Joey’s father, Paul, once shared a memorable story that captures his son’s indomitable spirit.
“He had the surgery a week before. He decided to go running with the sling on. He ran 8-9 miles alongside this main road down there. He had all these cars honking and waving at him. That really signifies the determination he has.”
This determination is evident in every aspect of Slackman‘s life. Whether it’s pursuing a career in the NFL or raising awareness for rare diseases, he is driven to leave a lasting legacy.
As Slackman looks ahead to the NFL and his Pro Day, there’s no doubt that his future is bright. But more importantly, his ability to make a difference in the lives of others is what truly sets him apart as a remarkable individual both on and off the field.
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