INTERVIEW: Jacob Thompson & TEN20words Artwork

Because We Are Strong

Welcome to the because we are a strong podcast. A podcast inspired by stories of struggle and strength. A place where you can feel safe enough to share every part of your rare story. The good, the bad, the happy, and anything in between. Many times those in the rare disease community feel isolated from the rest of the world. Rare disease comes with its own set of unique challenges, ones that are hard for the outside world to understand. Through our stories, we can bridge the gap between a lack of knowledge and understanding. Your story has the potential to touch and reach those who can relate and who otherwise feel alone. Together through our struggles, we can show our strength.

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Because We Are Strong

INTERVIEW: Jacob Thompson & TEN20words

October 27, 2020 • Theresa Thomas & Kristine Hoestermann // Guest: Jacob Thompson • Season 1 • Episode 12

Jacob Thompson (TEN20) has gone from diagnosis to destiny. His childhood dream was to be a professional athlete. He would tell you that, sometimes, our dreams for our lives need to die before we can live the true dreams and purpose that we were created for. He wouldn't only say this; he lives it every day.

In his late teens, Jacob started having trouble performing athletically at a high level. Throughout college and after graduation he had not been feeling right physically for a long time and finally decided to see a doctor. After a series of tests, he was diagnosed with a rare, genetic condition known as Friedreich's Ataxia (FA). FA causes progressive damage to the cerebral cortex, causing difficulties in balance, coordination, and energy production, leading patients into a wheelchair and a shortened life expectancy.

This diagnosis was an opportunity for Jacob to give up on his life and his faith. Instead, he chooses daily to make the most out of his situation. He uses his story and his art as a way to inspire others, helping them persevere through their challenges and find their purpose. He has spoken and shared his art for over 10,000 people and counting, and is now working on his first book.

Aside from speaking, spoken word, and hip-hop, Jacob, better known as JT, runs a high school mentoring program in Minneapolis and coaches football and basketball. He has a Master's degree from Bethel Seminary, is married to his beautiful wife, Abigail Thompson, and together they are raising their son, Titus.

Your trials aren’t meant to break you; they’re meant to make you. Keep on fighting and don’t quit. There is a purpose in your pain. Your struggle is meant to mold you into the person that you are meant to be. God has a plan for you!

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Connect with JT:

TEN20words.com
FB and IG @TEN20words

The CUBE and OOLER systems are two really cool gadgets that fit over the top of your mattress and use water to control the temperature of your bed. Right now Chili is offering my audience a really great deal. When you go to Chilisleep.com/findyourrare20, you can get 20% off the CUBE all sleep systems with findyourrare20. I hope you’ll check out Chili and see why I love their products so much.

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Kristine Hoestermann

Host