2024-01-02 16:06:22
Beware of prejudices and social stereotypes which can have a negative impact on your own possibilities. Nothing should ever stop you, especially if you have even the slightest belief that you can make it happen. As evidenced by Jerry’s story: everyone was convinced that he would never become a father. But, even though he was young and single, he had a certain paternal fiber in him which ended up pushing him towards adoption. He even headed to Cambodia to meet his destiny. And from there, his life completely changed. Today, looking back on his life, he realizes that his parenting journey is like a fairy tale come true.
He realizes his dream of becoming a father despite the prejudices of the time
Jordan Windle – Source : spm
For a long time, the desire for fatherhood tickled Jerry Windle. But people around him were not optimistic. He was often demotivated by telling him that he had little chance of becoming a father, especially if he continued to wallow in celibacy. After unsuccessfully trying to adopt a child in the United States, he himself came to believe that he might never realize his wish to become a father. But one day, while he was waiting in the waiting room of his doctor’s office, he started leafing through a magazine: he came across a report discussing the situation of orphans in Cambodia. He was so moved by the stories of these children that he did not hesitate for a single second to contact the Cambodian institution mentioned in the magazine. Seeing that he had no luck in his own country, he said to himself why limit himself geographically. He felt ready to adopt a foreign child. And this is how the incredible adventure of this future dad begins!
Jerry Windle et son fils, Jordan Windle – Source : spm
Fatherly love can help overcome all obstacles
Jerry Windle et son fils, Jordan Windle – Source : spm
To his great surprise, the agency accepted his adoption application. He then filled out the paperwork and all the forms to begin the process. Some time later, Jerry receives in the mail a photo of an adorable 18-month-old Cambodian orphan. Faced with his portrait, he was so overwhelmed that he immediately felt a strong affection for this child. Deep down, he felt that this little boy would be an integral part of his life. And then, things moved in the right direction. Jerry went to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to meet his future son, whom he named Jordan. The little boy was delighted to have finally found his adoptive father, but he was not in perfect physical shape. He was sick and Jerry needed to give him his full attention to make him feel better. Returning to the United States, the duo faced many obstacles. In addition to giving him good treatment to improve his health, he also had to teach him English, because he did not speak that language at all. But, whatever the complications, thanks to his love and kindness, this dad overcame all the difficulties on his way for the well-being of his son.
More than a passion, his son had a very promising gift for swimming
Jerry Windle et son fils, Jordan Windle – Source : spm
Both lived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (USA). The years passed peacefully, father and son were very close, they got along wonderfully. Thanks to Jerry’s education, Jordan became an adorable little boy full of enthusiasm, liveliness and intelligence. He multiplied his activities, but he was especially passionate regarding swimming. It was a real little fish in water! At the age of 7, while at a summer camp, he was noticed by Tim O’Brien, son of a famous diving coach, Ron O’Brien. The latter felt potential in him and let Jerry know. Believing in his talent and his formidable abilities, this father did not hesitate to integrate his son into a special diving program. These are the beginnings of his adventure as an Olympic competitor.
From Cambodia to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Jordan Windle – Source : spm
Jerry always did everything in his power to help his son pursue his diving career, including changing cities. They moved to Indianapolis, then to North Carolina. Destiny set in motion… Driven by his adoptive father and his diving skills, Jordan became the first Cambodian to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, representing the United States. At 24, he has won many awards and accomplished a lot in his life, thanks to his perseverance and discipline, but also to the unconditional support and love of his dear dad. He qualified for his first Olympic trials in 2012, at the age of 13, and his father was there, of course, to encourage and support him. In total, Jordan won six junior national titles, seven senior U.S. titles, and two NCAA titles, setting college records on the 3-meter springboard.
Academically, Jordan attended the International Connections Academy and graduated from the University of Texas.
Their story was published in a book
Jerry Windle and his son – Source: spm
After such a glorious journey, father and son celebrated their shared story in a children’s book they co-wrote in 2011. The book, titled “Orphan No More: The True Story of a Boy,” recounts their epic journey of playful way: they featured a rooster surrounded by mocking animals who assured him that he would never become a father without having a hen by his side. One day, the rooster came across an egg that no one wanted and which gave birth to a beautiful duckling. The rooster ended up adopting him despite his different appearance and this is how they both proved that where there is love, there is family.
This beautiful work is very symbolic since it emphasizes a poignant life lesson: parental love is above all prejudices and social stereotypes. He can work wonders and even produce miracles. Jerry Windle is living proof. This man with a big heart was able to raise alone a little Cambodian orphan whose destiny was to become a brilliant Olympic champion. What pride for his dad!
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