DUBLIN, CA — Two table tennis champions in Dublin are using their skills to help the less fortunate.
Tanvi Desai, an 8th grader at Cottonwood Creek TK-8 School, and her brother Aarav, a 6th grader, have both represented the U.S. National Table Tennis team in numerous tournaments. Aarav has represented the U.S. National team for the past two years, and won the World Championship in the Youth Contender event in San Francisco.
“As we grew in the sport, we realized that the lessons we learned could be life changing for others too,” Tanvi said in a video about the program.
“We wanted to do something meaningful with our love for table tennis,” said Aarav. “We wanted to share the same joy with others, especially the ones who need it the most. We believe in the power of table tennis, and we believe in the power of giving back.”
Through a new initiative called “Table Tennis for Life,” the two siblings have decided to use those skills to help improve the quality of life for the elderly, people with Parkinson’s Disease, autism, and other physical and mental health challenges. Research has shown that table tennis can enhance brain health, improve motor skills, and boost mental sharpness, which is particularly therapeutic for individuals with neurological conditions.
Each week, Tanvi and Aarav run sessions at the Micro Motion Table Tennis Academy in Pleasanton, where anyone can participate. The program has drawn support from all over the region, including coaches and local organizations.
“I’ve played table tennis for the last seven weeks, and it’s [really helped] me with my Parkinson’s,” said participant Gita Shah in the video. “It’s coordinating and complete exercise for my body. It’s very helpful for me.”
“I want to thank Table Tennis for Life,” said participant Pamala Sandbrink. “I’m enjoying learning to play table tennis thanks to Tanvi and Aarav. I found that I am more comfortable now, despite having two neurological diagnoses, which is Parkinson’s Disease and the essential tremor, as well as having double vision. It feels good to be in a safe space where people aren’t staring, or making you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable. The people here are great, they’re accepting, and we encourage and support each other. I’m so happy that these young people are teaching us and encouraging us and moving forward with the program. Thank you.”
For more information, watch this video. To contribute or get involved, visit tabletennisforlife.org.
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