Changing Faces, Changing Lives
JD’s Story
We have the pleasure of introducing you to Jason Hooper, otherwise known as JD Hooper. The “D” in JD stands for “Determination” – a fitting description of this champion in every sense of the word.
This is JD’s story, as told by JD:
“I was born with Apert Syndrome which hasn’t stopped me from achieving goals. After completing year 10 at school, I worked at a factory then started doing voluntary work for different charities. I then saw a segment on a sports show on disabled athletics and thought to myself “aha”, I’ll try being an athlete.
I was a track athlete and I competed at State & National Titles. While I didn’t make the National team, I competed at New Zealand National Titles in 1994 then my ankles decided they’d had enough. I was told if I wanted to continue running, I’d have to have an operation on my ankles that might not be successful so I retired from athletics. I was a bit disappointed because I didn’t compete at International level.
Hello swimming! I swam day in day out. I competed at 2009 World Masters Games Sydney and won a Silver in the 50m freestyle. That was good but not good enough! So I continued. Then I decided 2016 would be my last year. I rang local papers had interviews & photo shoots. The day before the papers came out I received an email: “Hi Jason, would you be interested in competing at the 2017 World Masters Games Auckland New Zealand?” I thought why not! So, I continued training. My dad was saying “Son go on a holiday. You’ve got no chance of winning Gold!”
There’s a sports enhancer that’s 100% legal – it’s proving people wrong!
I went to New Zealand and competed in the 50, 100, 200 & 400m freestyle. I won 3 Gold and 1 Silver from 5 events! I retired as a World Champ.
In 2020, I started a new sport – Masters Boxing. I did what was needed to become a Masters Boxer. I have had 14 fights, 10 wins, 4 Draws, 7 Title belts. 12 of those fights were against able body Masters Boxers.
To the people with Aperts Syndrome, take every day as it comes. Some days might not be that great but keep your chin up. Better days are to come. When people say “Jason you can’t do that” or “Jason you’ll embarrass yourself, don’t do it!” – I nod, then I go and do it! Don’t let people talk you out of achieving your dream, it’s your life. Sometimes things don’t go to plan but don’t give up. Keep trying.
I’m planning on retiring soon. I’ve got a new goal to achieve and that’s to gain my personal trainers certificate and help who ever needs help with achieving they’re goals.
Final word to my friends with Aperts Syndrome especially if you’re younger – set goals, live the best life, achieve goals and dreams what able body people dream about!”
JD Hooper – you knock it out of the park with your story! Thank you for being a beacon of light for others and kudos for being your own hero.
Share This Story:
