WILLIAM FAHEY

William Fahey

When William Fahey is passionate about something, he makes it happen.

William has physical and cognitive challenges as a result of cerebral palsy, but he has been playing sled hockey since he was 8, was on the Wellesley High School football team and volunteers at a local YMCA.

He’s also holding down three part-time jobs this summer, including one at Easter Seals.  And he’s a drummer in a rock band called WillPower.

“I don’t like to sit around,” this outgoing and friendly 19-year-old said.  “I like to stay active.”

Easter Seals has been at William’s side for a long time – ever since he was a 5-year-old in the organization’s swim program.  These days, Easter Seals Transition Services are helping him make the challenging move from high school to work.

William, 19, also is gaining independence and work experience through an internship with the Easter Seals Youth Leadership and summer camp programs for children and young adults with disabilities.  The internship is through the Boston Center for Independent Living.

He also helped plan and then attended the three-day Youth Leadership Forum.  There, he gained tools he’ll need to be a successful adult, got a taste of independence, made new friends and met great role models.

“It taught me how to stand up for myself,” he said of the forum. “What I learned there will help me go on to the next step in my life.”

“Easter Seals has helped me in a lot of ways,” William continued.  “They’ve helped me move in the right direction.  “For people who have disabilities, like me, it’s hard to get going in the right direction.  You have to keep pushing and pushing and pushing.  It’s not easy.”

William’s goal in life is to partner with businesses and organizations in creating a sports foundation for children with disabilities.  He wants to give them the same opportunities he’s had to play sports and make new friends.

Starting a foundation would be a daunting goal for many people, but not for William.

“I never give up when people tell me I can’t do things,” he said.  “I never give up on my dreams.”  

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