Warsaw Community Schools is proud to announce Mason Metzger, a senior at Warsaw Community High School, has been recognized by the Indiana House of Representatives for his strength and courage enriching the lives of others.
Each year, the Indiana House of Representatives recognizes several special children to serve as Riley Champions. These individuals are selected due to the courage and selfless dedication to others they demonstrate through philanthropic efforts. This year, Metzger was chosen for this recognition.
Metzger, who was born two months prematurely on Jan. 29, 1999, was not able to breathe when he first entered the world. Because of this, he suffered oxygen loss to his brain during the birth process. At 3-month-old, Mason began receiving therapy and was diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy before his first birthday. Following this diagnosis, Mason began a long relationship with the cerebral palsy program at Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health.
Though he has faced challenges in his life, Metzger has not let anything stand in the way of achieving his goals. Utilizing a motorized wheelchair, Mason also rides a hand powered bicycle, swims, water skis and completes triathlons with My TEAM TRIUMPH.
In addition to his active pursuits, Metzger has also worked hard to fulfill his eighth grade dream of becoming a motivational speaker in order to enrich the lives of others. Mason has spoken to nearly 30 groups about perseverance, hope and purpose. In recognition of his work, the Indiana Council for Exceptional Children named Metzger the 2015 winner of the “Yes I Can” award.
After recently speaking for the Warsaw Morning Optimist Club, the group decided to try and help Metzger share his story in front of the Indiana House of Representatives. Randy Polston, director of Applied Learning at Grace College and WCS board member contacted both John Elliott and David Wolkins, who assisted in arranging the opportunity.
“When I think of someone that begins each day with a mission to enrich the lives of others and to lift the kingdom of our Lord and Savior, no matter what life throws at him, my thoughts immediately turn to Mason Metzger,” noted Polston.
Warsaw Community High School Senior Mason Metzger prepares to speak to the Indiana House of Representatives on Jan. 10, 2017. (Photo supplied/WCS)
On Jan. 10, Metzger spoke in front of the house and was honored as a Riley Champion.
Metzger shared his story with the representatives as well as an inspiring speech encouraging others to work hard to reach their personal goals as well as goals as an organization. “At first something may seem impossible, but all you have to do is work toward your goals…” shared Metzger. “The reason why I love doing athletic events …is because crossing a finish line. It takes a team to get me to cross the finish line. It is not about how fast you get there; it is about crossing it. I want to ask you what steps you need to take today in order to cross the finish line as a team next year at this time.”
Superintendent of Warsaw Community Schools Dr. David Hoffert stated, “Mason is a perfect example of living the Warsaw Community Schools’ mission on a daily basis. We are extremely thankful that he was given the opportunity to share his inspirational words with members of our state legislature. Mason is an inspiration to all he comes in contact with.”
For more information on Metzger or to invite him to share his story, visit his website MasonMetzger.com.
