Gary Forbes is a former NBA player turned entrepreneur, advocate, and mentor. Originally hailing from Brooklyn, Forbes built a storied basketball career, earning conference player of the year honors at UMass before navigating the rigors of professional sports—all while managing Type 1 diabetes. Now, as the founder of Sole Survivors, Gary is dedicated to empowering youth, particularly those facing chronic health challenges, with optimism, resilience, and the unwavering belief that setbacks are just setups for future success. He’s also a published author, devoted father, and passionate motivator, showing that grit, self-belief, and giving back can turn any obstacle into a stepping stone.

Takeaways:

Turn Challenges Into Fuel: Gary’s journey with type 1 diabetes didn’t stop his NBA dreams; it gave him an extra level of resilience and inspired him to help others facing adversity.

Stay Rooted in Optimism: Whether facing tough losses, career pivots, or daily struggles, Forbes credits his “superpower” of optimism and his unwavering childhood love for basketball as keys to ongoing growth and reinvention.

Make Your Story Count: From mentoring the next generation to creating a global platform for children with health challenges, Gary believes your name and legacy are defined by how you show up for yourself and your community.

 Sound Bites:

“Plan B all the way to Z is to make plan A work. Always have that kind of mindset and vision and just that love.”

“Your present situation is not your final destination.”

“You’re a Forbes. You’re supposed to do these things.”

Connect & Discover Gary:

Website:  https://thesolesurvivors.com/about-us/

Book Series: Sole Survivors: New Age of Heros

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-forbes-082b5b267/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garyforbes_/

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