GMA: Isaiah Austin Heartbreaking Diagnosis & New Dreams

Good Morning America: Isaiah Austin

Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts recently spent some time with Isaiah Austin, a promising young basketball player who had been considered for the NBA Draft, until he received some life changing news: a diagnosis of Marfan Syndrome.

GMA: Isaiah Austin Honorary Draft Pick

During the NBA draft, Isaiah Austin stood amongst his peers and was recognized by the NBA for his courage, resilience, and determination as the honorary NBA draft pick. The former Baylor University basketball player was expected to be a second round pick, but his dreams of playing professional ball came to a halt when he received a shocking diagnosis.

Good Morning America: Isaiah Austin Diagnosis

Isaiah Austin knew something was wrong when he saw his mother, Lisa Green. “I just remember walking into the house late. My coaching staff was there, my family, my pastor, you know, just close family friends. As soon as I walked through the door, she was the first face I saw and there was just tears running down her eyes, so I knew something was up,” he said.

It was then that Isaiah Austin’s mother revealed that he has Marfan Syndrome. Marfan Syndrome is a genetic disorder that weakens the body’s connective tissue and could lead to heart failure. Unfortunately, doctors recommended that Isaiah Austin stop playing basketball immediately.

GMA: Working Through Challenges

Isaiah Austin said he was devastated, especially since he had been working so hard towards he goal of playing professional basketball. In middle school, Isaiah Austin had a torn retina, which resulted in loss of vision in his left eye. He had four surgeries that they had hoped would restore vision to his eye, but none of them fully did. Isaiah Austin’s mother Lisa Green said that when we’re faced with challenges, we have two choices, “Make it your excuse, or make it your story.”

Baylor University has offered for Isaiah Austin to come back to school, get his degree, and coach basketball. Isaiah Austin said the only thing getting him through this tough situation is his faith and his family. He now wants to share his story with others, and help people fight for their dreams regardless of their circumstances. His best advice? “Just stay positive. There’s going to be bumps in the road. I say get on your knees and pray, really.”