EVANSTON, Illinois, October 3. Northwestern men’s swimming and diving, through a partnership with Team IMPACT, a Boston-based charitable organization, “drafted” 5-year-old Justin Henry of Evanston\u00a0<\/span>Thursday<\/span><\/span>\u00a0night to become member of the team.<\/span>

Henry, who was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at just 2-months-old, joined the squad during a 15-minute ceremony in NU’s Nicolet team meeting room. After members of the team, coaching staff and administration spoke to welcome Henry and his family, the team held a formal “announcement” ceremony similar to a USA Swimming team introduction after a national meet.<\/span>

Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by red blood cells that assume an abnormal, rigid shape. Sickling decreases the cells’ flexibility and results in a risk of various complications. As a toddler, Henry dealt with swelling of his hands and feet which resulted in being in-and-out of the hospital every 6-to-8 weeks. Henry also suffers from sleep apnea and an enlarged heart, which increases his possibility of stroke.<\/span>

Henry epitomizes what it means to be a fighter and will serve as an inspiration to his new Northwestern teammates. To the best of their ability, Team IMPACT children become full-fledged members of collegiate sports organizations by attending practices, games and social events with their teammates and mentors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Northwestern kicks off its season\u00a0<\/span>Oct. 16<\/span><\/span>\u00a0at Eastern Michigan before opening its home schedule at\u00a0<\/span>1 p.m. CT Saturday, Oct. 25<\/span><\/span>, against UIC and Oakland. To learn more about team IMPACT, visit their website at\u00a0<\/span>http:\/\/www.goteamimpact.org<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n