Who would have thought that a backyard summer camp for kids and adults with special needs and intellectual disabilities could have become what it is today: a worldwide movement, helping to change the lives and attitudes of participants, families, and supporters for over 43 years.
And so it began . . . All it took was one person, Eunice Kennedy, to notice how these special individuals were being left out, forgotten about, and not being treated fairly. The lack of attention and treatment as “outcasts” left Eunice frustrated with how intellectually-challenged children and young adults had nowhere to play. Her dream of doing something special for them began to materialize when she created a summer day camp in her very own backyard in the early 1960s. Her goal became to encourage these special kids to do the best at the sports they could participate in, without dwelling on the things they couldn’t do, as so often happened.
And So it Grew
The first Special Olympics Summer Games were held in Chicago back in 1968. Over 1,000 intellectually-challenged individuals from 26 states and Canada competed in swimming and track and field events. Twenty years later in 1988, as the Special Olympics rapidly grew in popularity and support, the International Olympic Committee signed a historic agreement and officially endorsed and recognized the Special Olympics.
One Girl’s Story
This was the first year my intellectually-challenged, teenage autistic daughter participated in the Special Olympics. I admit the phrase “intellectually-challenged” bothers me a bit; just because she can’t verbalize her thoughts, it doesn’t make the rest us any “smarter.” Anyway, I was excited to go and felt quite privileged to be a supporter of her and all the other kids and adults with challenges.
My daughter, Lana, has a difficult time accepting new, unfamiliar ideas . . . and the Special Olympics were no different. Her teacher asked if she wanted to run in the races, to which she firmly said, “No!” She eventually signed up for the ball toss for distance. When the day came and it was her turn, Lana did not understand that she had to wait until told to throw the ball and immediately launched it into the air, nearly taking someone out. Though everyone was safe, we all had a chuckle; and she finished in third place! Nothing made me prouder than to see her on the podium as they placed the medal around her neck. I think dancing with one of the school’s mascot, a cougar, was Lana’s happiest moment, though!
More Than Just a Day at the Park
It’s hard not to get a little emotional, whether it be with tears in your eyes or a smile on your face, as you watch these kids enjoy the freedom outside of the classroom – simply being able to compete with one another; whether on foot or in a wheelchair, either independently or with assistance. It’s a special day for everyone: the kids, their families, and their teachers. Dennis Foels, Special Education Teacher for Williamson County Schools in Franklin, Tennessee had this to share, “There are so many things that can be said about the program or the activities that are offered at least every month by Williamson County Special Olympics. However, it just comes down to the pure joy on the faces of the participants and that is more important than anything else, smiles.”
One of my dearest friends, Leigh Jackson, has been a tremendous shoulder to lean on for me and my daughter; really our whole family. Having a brother with intellectual disabilities, it has given her a great understanding of the ongoing stress that comes with those with special needs. She, too, has witnessed the Special Olympics and what it provided for her brother. “Scott was always proud of his ribbons and trophies and it really boosted his ego. I looked forward every year to his excitement, his surprise at winning the ribbons, and most of all, the smile that spread across his face after participating. I have so much gratitude in my heart for the special work that Special Olympics does for individuals and their families! Without it, I don't think Scott would have grown up to be the adult that he is today!”
The Special Olympics opens the eyes of those who are unaware. It’s fun for participants to compete and be physically active. And it brings joy and camaraderie to everyone involved.
When you consider that, what more really needs to be said?
By Kristen Lee Curtis
Originally published at http://www.insidershealth.com
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