Video: Eleven Year Old Refuses To Let Disability Slow Him Down On Land, Or In Water

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) –  An 11 year old North Mississippi boy is proof that physical disabilities can be overcome, with attitude, support and training.

WCBI’s Allie Martin introduces us to this inspiring youngster who helped Tupelo win a national award recently.

At least twice a week, Nash Bennett goes to Tupelo’s Aquatic Center for therapy.

The 11 year old Itawamba County boy was born with spina bifida.

“He has done everything they told us he would never do,” Lynn Bennett, Nash’s mom said.

She makes it a point to never discourage her son from anything, including sports.

Now, Nash plays with the Challenger League in Tupelo.

“It’s really fun because ever since I was 8 I’ve always wanted to be on a team, any kind of team,” Nash said.

The league allows special needs kids and adults to do things most of us take for granted.  When Nash gets in the water, his physical disability isn’t a factor.

“It’s actually really easy, because you are actually floating and you have to use your arms to move and not your legs,” he said.

Nash was also on the recent award winning All America City team.

In May, his relay swim team brought home a gold medal from the Special Olympics in Biloxi.

“This year was my first time to win gold so it was really fun for me,” Nash said.

On land, Nash plays baseball and basketball.

He believes a determined attitude, along with hard work, is a formula for success.

Nash turns 12 next month.  He will be a sixth grader at the Itawamba Attendance Center.