Shortly after Bill Thompson's only son, William, lapsed into a coma, the sixth grader passed away.
It was a devastating blow for the dad and his wife, and as it would be for any parent, the sadness was unbearable. Now, the father is raising awareness for the illness that took his son: bacterial meningitis.
He grapples with the loss every day, and holds onto the memory of the happy sixth grader. However, through the pain, he's been able to see the light in the otherwise sad situation. William was able to possibly save five other people in South Carolina through his organ donation.
The dad told WYFF, "What choice do I have but to celebrate in something like, in something like that? Amidst all this pain, is that not the most wonderful thing you've ever heard in you life?"
Bill is also using one of his late son's favorite hobbies to tell people his story. During Family Day at the Masters Golf Tournament, he's asking folks to wear white for William.
This sad but beautiful story is sure to enlighten people about bacterial meningitis and how deadly it can be.
According to the CDC, a few of the symptoms of meningitis are the following: stiff neck, nausea, sudden fever, and sensitivity to light. Consult a doctor immediately if you or a loved one is afflicted with these symptoms.
Please SHARE this father's incredible movement, and to help keep William's memory alive!
