Texas Speech Coach Overcome with Emotion After Receiving $100,000 Donation

In a heartwarming turn of events, a dedicated speech and debate coach from West Texas has been honored with an unexpected $100,000 gift. Known for her unyielding support of students from financially strapped families, this coach has tirelessly used her own resources to enable her rural students to participate in national tournaments.

Deb Garoui, who mentors in Post, Texas, was acknowledged during a prominent tournament for her unwavering commitment to economically disadvantaged students. The surprise donation from the innovative design firm Canva came at a crucial time, as Garoui is burdened by significant medical debt due to her son’s severe epileptic condition.

"I can hardly believe this is happening," Garoui remarked when she received the unexpected news. "Our medical expenses have skyrocketed to $4 million."

A survivor of breast cancer and a single parent, Garoui has selflessly financed lodging, meals, and tournament entry fees for her students out of her personal savings. Many of her pupils come from households facing profound financial hardships.

"Some of my students had never owned luggage before we began traveling," she noted. "They live with basic dirt floors, and some homes lack adequate heating or plumbing. It's true destitution."

Her son, Noah, sometimes accompanies the debate team. He battles Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, needing up to 24 medications daily. He endured a five-month hospital stay, during which Garoui and her daughter, Noor, alternated their presence by his side.

Garoui intends to allocate part of the $100,000 to fix her son's wheelchair, purchase a shower chair for him, and mend their home's plumbing, which became problematic during Noah’s extended hospital stay.

Despite financial setbacks, her teams have reached both state and national levels of competition. Noor, her daughter, was the star performer on a former team.

The philanthropic gesture was unveiled by CBS News contributor David Begnaud, who presided over the national tournament as the master of ceremonies. Additionally, Canva donated another $100,000 to the National Speech and Debate Association.

Scott Wunn, the executive director of the National Speech and Debate Association, which is marking its centennial this year, expressed his sentiments on the occasion.

"The kids I mentor, especially those from secluded areas, finally have an opportunity to assert their voices and advocate for themselves," Garoui reflected on the organization's influence.

Garoui is featured in the documentary "Speak," which underscores the impact of the speech and debate community in empowering young minds.