CARRY

01The Struggles of Disabled High School Wrestlers: Dartanyon and Leroy's Story

In the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, two high school wrestlers, Dartanyon and Leroy, are grappling with more than just their opponents on the mat. Dartanyon, legally blind with no home to call his own, and Leroy, with legs amputated from a childhood infection, are an unlikely duo. Yet, their friendship and shared love for wrestling bind them together in a way that transcends their physical limitations. But how do they manage their disabilities while wrestling? Dartanyon and Leroy first met in high school. Dartanyon, despite his visual impairment, was drawn to wrestling, while Leroy, using prosthetic legs, was determined not to let his disability define him. Their disabilities posed daily challenges, from navigating school hallways to participating in a physically demanding sport like wrestling. Yet, they found strength in their shared struggles and formed a bond that would shape their lives. Enter Lisa Fenn, an ESPN producer who stumbled upon their story. Intrigued by their resilience and determination, she decided to document their journey. Lisa's involvement, however, went beyond just telling their story. She became a catalyst for change in their lives, providing them with the support and resources they desperately needed. But the wrestling mat wasn't the only battlefield for Dartanyon and Leroy. They faced physical, emotional, and psychological challenges due to their disabilities. Dartanyon, for instance, struggled with feelings of abandonment due to his unstable home life. Leroy, on the other hand, grappled with the physical pain of using prosthetics. Yet, they refused to be defined by their circumstances, displaying a resilience that was nothing short of inspiring. Their socio-economic backgrounds further complicated their lives. Growing up in low-income households, they lacked access to resources, opportunities, and support systems that many take for granted. Yet, they navigated these socio-economic challenges with the same grit and determination they showed on the wrestling mat. To fully appreciate Dartanyon and Leroy's story, it's essential to understand the context in which it unfolds. They are not just high school wrestlers; they are young men grappling with disabilities, poverty, and societal expectations. Their story is one of resilience, friendship, and overcoming adversity, themes that resonate throughout Lisa Fenn's book, "CARRY." As we delve deeper into Dartanyon and Leroy's journey, we are reminded of the power of resilience and friendship in overcoming adversity. Their story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to rise above challenges, no matter how insurmountable they may seem. And as we turn the pages of their story, we can't help but be inspired by their unwavering determination to carry on, despite the odds.