A remarkable story that serves as an inspiration to many. His journey from an orphanage in Cambodia to the Olympic stage is a testament to the transformative power of love, determination and family support.
“I give him everything, including all my successes. We’ve been on an amazing journey together and things are still going well.”
Jordan Windle, a 22-year-old diver who represented the United States on the Olympic diving team in Tokyo this year, has an amazing story to share.
Jordan was forced to live in a Cambodian orphanage when his parents died when he was just one year old. He was a weak infant with a parasitic infestation and a gloomy look. That all changed when gay Florida resident Jerry Windle read a story about a single man who adopted a Cambodian child.
“Something broke in my thoughts when the narrative got to the part about the close relationship between a father and his son… After reading the article, I contacted the number mentioned in the article and asked if it was possible for a single person to adopt a child. I said I just read the article. Yes, they said, it is. Jerry discussed this with Today.
A few months later, eager to give his child a fresh start in America, he held his son in his arms.
When Jordan was seven years old, he went to summer camp. That was the beginning of an incredible life experience that included diving, a sport that changed Jordan’s life forever.
Jordan was away at summer camp when Jerry received a call from Tim O’Brien, whose father, Ron O’Brien, had trained many outstanding divers over the years. Tim informed Jerry that his son was unique and that he was destined to become a diver.
Two years after his first diving experience, Jordan “won his first junior national title, which is extremely unique for someone new to the sport,” his father said in a statement to Today. “I know the hard work he’s put in and I’m really pleased and proud that he’s done such an incredible thing with his coaching staff,” said the ecstatic father.
Jordan reveals that his father is a diver, which is why he dives. Jerry is ecstatic to witness his son’s success and continued advancement in his profession.
Because of the epidemic and all the restrictions, Jerry could not accompany his child to Tokyo.
It’s great that I can hear my dad most of the time over the noise of the crowd. Jordan remarked, “It’s going to be weird not having him at the Olympics,” as reported by The News & Observer. “I wish he could be there, but that doesn’t change what I’m going there to do: have a good time, show off a little and show everyone off.” That will be my goal and I hope I can achieve it in a way that makes him happy.
The little artist thanked his dad for everything he had done for him over the years. I owe him everything, for all my successes. If he hadn’t made all the sacrifices he has and I didn’t have his love and support the whole time we’ve been together. We’ve been on an amazing journey together and it’s still going well.
As they continue their journey together, Jordan remains grateful for the incredible ride they’ve shared and the strength they draw from their strong father-son relationship. Their story serves as a reminder that love knows no bounds and that with unwavering support and faith, obstacles can be overcome and greatness achieved.
Jordan Windle dives in Tokyo not only for himself, but also to honor his father’s love and sacrifices. Their journey is a testament to family strength, resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. As the world watches Jordan compete on the Olympic stage, his story inspires us all to follow our dreams, embrace the love and support of our loved ones, and never forget the impact they have on our lives.