2021 Notes 41-43: Special Olympics Friendships

A couple of years ago, I raised money for Special Olympics International. That was a great experience, but I was far removed from the athletes who participate in competition. I decided to get involved locally, but the pandemic was spreading so there were no in-person activities. That meant doing something virutal (see my post 2020 - Note 38: Special Olympics) for more on this.

This year -- with athletes and coaches meeting Special Olympics vaccination and protocol requirements -- we were able to be in person! I became part of the local running/walking team, attending bi-weekly practice and competing as a "Unified Partner" with a Special Olympics athlete. I've had so much fun making new friends and learning about people I would never have met otherwise.

There are three people I am especially grateful for. First, the leader of the team. As head coach, he oversees pretty much everything -- practices, tournaments, etc. He kindly and swiftly answers all the random questions people throw at him, and he laughs off the reply all threads that would generate a snarky reaction from most people.

Second, there's a Unified Partner who has been involved with the group for a long time. She was very welcoming and friendly, which helped me feel comfortable and learn more about the group. We have a similar pace, so we started walking together and getting to know each other. I'm so glad our paths crossed...maybe merged is more accurate.

Third, but in no way "bronze", is my athlete partner. He loves competing -- and even more, he loves winning gold! From the start of the season, he was motivated to get faster and to win at the Fall Festival that includes athletes from the entire state of PA. The two of us pushed each other to work out regularly, eat well (mostly!) and walk, walk, walk! We truly became a team and friends as well. Our partnership is something I treasure, and I'm looking forward to the next season.

Oh, and we won two golds and a silver at Fall Fest!