Saturday, February 26, 2011

Best Special Olympics Ever


Brandon had Special Olympics basketball today in San Marcos.  Brandon has been participating in Special Olympics since he was in middle school.  He loves it because he always wins.  So do all the kids.  It is not often that Brandon has people cheering for him, paying attention to him and doing something athletic.  So whatever the sport is, Brandon will participate.  He loves it. 

I love Special Olympics because Brandon loves Special Olympics.  But I also love that Brandon gets exercise and socialization, two things he does not get enough of.  Today was another Special Olympics event.  Special Olympics is run mainly by volunteers.  For the parents it can be a little frustrating because often the events run very far behind, the weather can be unpredictable, and sometimes they are very unorganized.  As a former manager that drives me crazy.  Last year Brandon's track meet lasted for 6 hours and he only had two events.  But like most parents, I cant complain because again - Brandon loves this. 

I have to give credit today to HEB, Special Olympics staff and the coaches.  Brandon was told to be at the event at 10:45.  There was a wreck on the way to the event and we were a little late.  To my surprise they were running ahead.  So we walked into the event.  Within 5 minutes Brandon was doing his three events and we were out of the gym within 30 minutes.  Plenty of time for the outlet mall. 

Brandon earned a gold medal (he was the only one in his category but don't tell him).  I was real happy that it was a short 30 minutes, very organized, and the HEB volunteers made all the athlete's feel great.  And the best - Brandon was very happy.  You know he loves Special Olympics.  So really a great day. 

On to track.

Later Leah

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Hi, Leah. My son, Raul is 19 going on 20 Sept 18. He has been diagnosed with IDD. I'm trying to find resources in San Antonio, where we live but there are waiting lists. Do you have any suggestions on how to transition him to adulthood? All he likes are video games and watching football (NFL) and basketball (NBA). He doesn't like to be around people.