Our Stories
Every day, Special Olympics inspires hope, confidence, and courage. Not only do we change the lives of our athletes, but also the lives of our coaches, families, volunteers and others who have the opportunity to take part.
Do you have a story to share? Tell us how Special Olympics has impacted your life, changed your community, improved your health, or touched your heart.
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The R-Word
April 3, 2018
Some people think they can bully people if they want, but they probably don’t think about it breaking their heart. It’s even worse when done to autistic people like me. Bullies don’t think abouthow hurtful the r…
Unconditional love
April 3, 2018
My grandson has Down Syndrome, and I never use the R word and am quick to reprimand people who do. My grandson is so smart and offers unconditional love to everyone he meets. The world would be a much kinder…
Jack’s Confidence
March 9, 2018
Both Jack and my older brother Russell were born with Alport Syndrome. However, in our family, we were all equal. We all got grounded, and they annoyed me, as brothers do. One thing we all shared was our passion for…
SO Fit Making an Impact
September 11, 2017
Emerson and I wanted to thank Special Olympics VA for the So-Fit yoga and exercise program and share with you all the difference it has made in Emerson's health. In July, we went to see his primary care physician, Dr.…
Coming Together In The Workplace
August 21, 2017
I have worked at Special Olympics Virginia or what we call “SOVA” as an Office Assistant for 6 years. My fellow staff members are the best employees to work with, and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of…
Sweet Success in Virginia
August 7, 2017
You're not seeing double. There are two heroic boys named Lukas wearing shades in this photo. They are both surrounded by friends and a real twin sister. But only one Lukas can serve you ice cold lemonade. The other Lukas…
Reaching Out For A Cause
August 7, 2017
My name is Emily Bower, and I am a Global Messenger for Special Olympics Virginia. As a Global Messenger, I have learned so many things in my two years of giving speeches. Mostly, I have learned to speak up, and…
Area 11 in Virginia now has Gymnastics!
July 31, 2017
I came into the Special Olympics program many years ago, coaching basketball and track and field. (Soccer and gymnastics in the upcoming season.) Noticing during winter many of the kids loved cheerleading and thought gymnastics would be a great accommodation…
My Daughter was Truly a Blessing
July 31, 2017
When my mom got pregnant at 37 the doctors wanted her to have a test to see if the baby would have disabilities but mom said no, I will take whatever God gives me, so that instilled in me that you…
Why is it so wrong?
March 31, 2017
I was at school and I heard my friend Harrison say the r-word. When I told him not to say it, he asked why. I wasn't sure what to tell him, so I told him that it was disrespectful and…
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