My name is Donald Thompson. I am from Lincolnton, North Carolina. I was born and raised there my whole life. I graduated from Lincolnton high school in 2017. Then attended Gardner Webb University where I played football and graduated in 2021. I majored in sports education and minored in communication. I am now part of the University of Dubuque family and football team. While I am finishing my masters in management in diversity and inclusion leadership. I have had a very blessed life but I have also faced a lot of adversity when it comes to life, school and sports and my physical and mental health. April 1st of 2022, I had severe acute pancreatitis. My pancreas was dying, which caused other complications with my heart, lungs and even shutting off my kidneys. Forcing me to start dialysis. Leaving me hooked up to machines to help keep me alive. Waking up with tubes, cords, and other machines connected to me was one of the scariest things I could ever experience. I couldn’t talk, it hurt to open my eyes, move, and even breathe at times. My body was so bad that I wasn’t allowed to drink water. I had to start all the way over, learning to walk, eat, talk, and breathe again. My mental health has been great throughout my entire life. With that being said it is important to have those who actually care and support you through your struggles. Coming to UD this fall has been amazing in many ways. The environment, students, coaching staff, and my teammates have made me feel like family since I have been here. Pushing me and encouraging me to get better every day in every way possible. I am forever grateful and thankful for the opportunity UD has given me.
