Gary van der Wege, a member of the 2004 U.S. Paralympic Fencing Team, visited with the youth at the Boys & Girls Club of San Antonio on September 11th.

Gary shared with the club his inspiring story of how he became a paralympian. Gary stressed that even though he was involved in a severe motorcycle accident in 1995 that put him in a wheelchair for the rest of his life, he hasn't stopped belieiving in his dreams.

Gary also spoke about the importance of service in conjunction with the United We Serve campaign and facilitated a Question & Answer session.  The group was a wonderful audience. They were eager to hear Gary’s story and asked many questions.

“Gary’s visit was very encouraging. He had me on my feet. I’m a teenager, you know, but I was really into the presentation. I hope he comes back," said Janaevia, age 15 Gary was extremely happy that he could take part in serving the community on the first official September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Gary had a wonderful time engaging the youth and looks forward to another visit to Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio!