After spending just five minutes with 10-year-old Colin Chapman, his father Bryon’s description of him as “amazingly energetic and precocious” was spot on. Colin could barely contain his excitement as he detailed what his few moments on the court during the Timberwolves match Wednesday night.
“It’s been a really great night so far,” Colin said. “I had a lot of fun and it was a good experience. I was a little nervous at first but it went smoothly after I got out there.”
As part of WolvesCare Month presented by C.H. Robinson Worldwide, the FastBreak Foundation is focusing its attention on the Timberwolves’ toughest fans this month—children with life-threatening or long-term illnesses. Colin was honored as Wednesday’s “Hero In The Making.”
Timberwolves President Chris Wright and C.H. Robinson Worldwide representative Scott Wetzel presented Colin with a jersey and an autographed team ball at center court following the first quarter.
Colin was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in August of 2001 and despite being told he would struggle to have a "normal life," Colin and his family was determined to fight the odds. At that time they were introduced to some wonderful caregivers at Children's Hospitals and Clinics and learned how to care for Colin while also learning he could lead as productive a life as anyone.
“It is so important to get hooked up with the right people,” Bryon said. “People that have gone through it, people that are knowledgeable of the resources and to get with those people right away because they give you the hope to know what you need to do and how you’re going to move forward.”
Colin has made great strides managing his disease but it has not been an easy journey. Each day Colin goes through two hours of physical therapy while following a strict prescription regime that includes 30 pills and medications on a daily basis.
The grueling lifestyle has not discouraged Colin from enjoying the life of a 10-year-old boy. Along with spending time with friends, Colin maintains an active lifestyle and is working on getting his black belt in karate this year. He also plays youth football and is an avid mountain biker.
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