More Alike Than Different

There are so many good things happening for people with special needs this summer! The National Down Syndrome Congress held its convention in Florida at Disney World. There's a great "We're More Alike Than Different" campaign happening, full of stories of how people with special needs are impressing the world around them. I loved the photo of Anthony Shriver (nephew of John F. Kennedy) lifting up a competing swimmer at Camp Shriver in Boston to congratulate him in winning.~~~Our son, Jeff would have loved all this activity. He began attending Special Olympics Events when he was little. Their Oath said, "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." Here is an excerpt from "Journey With Jeff; Inspiration for Caregivers of People with Special Needs," titled, "Courage! Sharing! Joy!"~~~"Good morning, God!" The chaplain, Jeff's dad, asked God's blessing on the day as the bright, warming May sky welcomed the Special Olympic games. Our excitement for Jeff and the other participants was brimming over. Jeff's teachers plus several of the families of his classmates were eager to cheer on every athlete's endeavor to succeed. Special Olympics began for Jeff in the spring of 1970 in Dunkirk, when he was almost 9 years old. I am eternally thankful to Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who started a day camp with her husband, Sargent, in their backyard in the early 1960s. This day camp for individuals included her sister Rose, who was developmentally disabled with mental retardation, and it launched the way for Special Olympics in the United States and around the world. Our opening parade in the city of Jamestown began forming with the mayor and our state senator at the head. A Sousa march burst forth from the loudspeaker, accompanying the athletes around the track, and their excited waves fired our applause. Then the sight that continues to thrill me every time I see it -- a runner lighting the Olympic torch. Let the games begin! The cheers from parents, teachers, aides and clasmates were deafening! At the end of the event each athlete received a special hug, among much cheering and applause. People in charge made sure all players were rewarded. In the 1970s everyone received a ribbon, even if it was simply for taking part. Now it was Jeff's turn for the softball throw. "You go, Jeff!" He earned a red ribbon -- second prize! "Yay! That's great, Jeff! Come get your hug!" (My prayer at the end of that day was, "Hallelujah! What a day! All that courage and sharing and joy! You enjoyed it, too, didn't You, Jesus?"