Special Olympics is ‘special’

THE EDITOR: I had the privilege on Sunday April 6, of acting as a volunteer at the Special Olympics 2003 Aquatic programme at the Flying Fish Pool in Federation Park. On behalf of my friends and members of my family who also acted as volunteers, I would like to say a special thank you to all those involved. It was truly an honour to spend the day with these wonderful athletes.

There were thirty-four events in all, ranging from a 15m Assisted Swim to the 100m relay. The young people came from centres such as The Lady Hochoy Vocational Centre, Immortelle Centre, The Centre For Persons with Disabilities and various other places. Some of us helped with scoring, while others were time keepers or simply helped the winners to the podium to collect their medals. This is the second year that I have been involved in the Aquatics Programme, and I cannot begin to describe what it is like to be among these young people who demonstrated professionalism, courage and a true love of life. As I watched them compete, and then ascend the podium to receive their prizes, their faces beaming with pride, huge smiles and arms upraised in victory, I felt so lucky to be able to be there to cheer them on.

They were all winners, and you could tell how truly proud they felt. I wondered if many of us who think we have such big problems, really know what adversity is, and what it means to overcome it. I only wish that the stands could have been filled to capacity. I would like to urge everyone out there to take some time to support these athletes. All it takes is a few hours, an offer to help. Get involved! Just be there to show your support. You’ll be amazed at how much you gain by doing this. I feel truly humbled today. I take this opportunity to congratulate all the winners, and all those who worked so hard to make the day a success. Thanks also to Cheryl Samuel for asking me to come out to help. They have given me so much more than I gave them. Spending last Sunday with them was a gift, and I can’t wait for next year.

MARGARET   SAMUEL
Port-of-Spain