Special Olympics—More Than Just Events
Happy Disability Awareness Month! October also happens to be Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
Down Syndrome causes intellectual and developmental delays in children and is often accompanied by a variety of physical conditions, namely cardiac and respiratory issues. The DS spectrum is vast; however, the physical features, developmental delays, and associated medical conditions can vary widely. It’s important to note that delays do not connote permanency. In other words, kids with DS will walk, talk, and learn — just on their own timeline.
They run their race at their own pace.
My wife and I are the proud parents of Spencer, our youngest son. Spencer, who has Down Syndrome, has brought immeasurable joy, love, and laughter to our lives. There have been challenges, yes — but nothing we haven’t overcome with our faith, friends, family, and community. A major part of this supportive village is FiscalNote customer Special Olympics.
As a parent of a child with special needs, there’s ever-present concern about finding the right fit for Spencer in today’s world.
From social life to sports, to even a general sense of belonging and acceptance — how can I make my child’s life as normal as possible?
When we watch Spencer participate through the Howard County Special Olympics, it’s the most normal moment in his life — and ours.
The organizers, coaches, and volunteers have put together a great system that meets athletes’ needs at their every ability level. Each practice session is a step toward an actual event or series of events athletes compete in as representatives of their county.
Spencer plays basketball, soccer, bowling, and has even placed in a few track and field events. The joy instilled in him is amazing. For Spencer, it’s never about winning as much as it’s just being able to participate. I notice the same thing among other athletes.
I’m always pleasantly surprised by the like-mindedness within the communities of athletes and parents and guardians. In this sometimes cruel world, every problem seems to take a back seat at Special Olympics events. Everyone is deeply invested in providing the best experience possible. No moment is taken for granted.
While Spencer enjoys plenty of things with typical kids, the Special Olympics community provides a source of social support and enjoyment with which he thrives. It’s been really difficult to overcome and endure long breaks in practice routines and event cancellations during these COVID-19 years. Our family has worked extra hard to find creative ways to keep Spencer’s spirits up.
He’s very in tune with the concept of finding fun in participation versus the need to always be the winner. Like the chant we always say at our Special Olympic events, “Let me win, and if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
Special Olympics is so much more than the occasional events with which most people are familiar. This organization enriches the lives of special athletes — and any person who becomes involved. It creates new opportunities for connection and growth. It teaches and perpetuates important lessons of friendship and acceptance — and it builds lasting relationships.
Special Olympics team members will join FiscalNote for a virtual discussion moderated by a member of its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Task Force on Friday, October 29, 2021.
