Receiving so much More Than a Medal at the CT Winter Special Olympics

Everyone of us face challenges everyday. Challenges at work, with our relationships, and for some of us physical challenges. The way we meet those challenges is certainly variable but for some, looking beyond their challenges is a true and honorable lifestyle. Spending time at the Connecticut Winter Special Olympics we witnessed the amazing courage that special needs individuals possess to embrace their deficits and rise to their challenges in a big way.

The Give Back Girls were determined to help this year at the skating events. The past years we found ourselves at or on Powder Ridge Mountain for the skiing events. When we received our assignment for speed skating we were thrilled to have this opportunity to encourage the skaters. Saturday was beautiful outside but what we discovered inside that skating rink warmed our hearts 💕 more than any sunshine could.

Our task? GBGs Michelle, Johanna, and Arlene would gather the athletes from the various locker rooms and bring them to the rink booth in preparation for the race. This is where they were lined up in order and their safety gear was verified as in place.

GBG Michelle was in a different booth with the same tasks. She was a sport gathering all of her athletes by herself.

The first trip to the locker rooms were met with excitement mixed with a little trepidation as the athletes and coaches were getting into the groove we were establishing. The athletes were being tended to by parents and caregivers as they were getting geared up and building their excitement! The coaches obviously loved what they do and from our perspective were angels in disguise. The program is always looking for people to take the reins as coaches so the events continue for years to come. Are you coach worthy? Consider something that rewards in return!

Arlene was talking with one of the athletes and answering question after question until some light laughter came from the coach bench. I then realized that the questions would never end until I politely excused myself. This young athlete was seen with a smile ALWAYS! Round and round on that ice with a smile that could not be forgotten.

A trip in the locker room brought me to another athlete that was cuddling into his dad and spreading kisses all over his face. The dad was laughing quietly as he was being attacked with kisses! The display of love for this dad was so beautiful. Later this young man took one of the Gold Medals. 🥇

The athletes were adults of various ages. From what we could tell the oldest was 68. GBGs Arlene and Johanna gasped as we watched one athlete push this older fella to the ice as he passed to attempt putting him behind. Tha was the only aggressive moment we saw the entire day. Mr. 68 just got up and continued his race. Steady, sure, and confident, round and round. He places 2nd and we were so proud of him!!! 👏

Johanna took a break and treated Michelle and Arlene to hot cocoa with whipped cream!! 😋 oh! And the organization put a really nice spread on for lunch that the athletes and volunteers could enjoy!

Toward the end of the event our trips to the locker room were met with joking and fun. The Athletes became comfortable with us and enjoyed our interactions as much as we enjoyed them. Now, let me give a shout out to all of the parents and caregivers. While we had the opportunity to engage with your charges for one day and loved every minute of it, we do recognize the dedication and sacrifice necessary to fulfill your responsibilities. Amazing love and care!!!

Splendid exhaustion was what we witnessed as the skaters entered and finished their last race. The determination was palpable and the fans were riled up with pride. One of the last skaters was on the ice on his back and proceeded to motion a snow angel causing the fans to laugh out loud!

As usual, the Give Back Girls were filled with beautiful feelings and thoughts when packing up for the day. We walked to the car and GBG-Michelle said, “What’s next?”

Follow along on our volunteer opportunities page to see what is coming up next. There is always an adventure. GBG Johanna will be helping to set the Cystic Fibrosis meeting and awards event at the New Haven Lawn Club this week. At the end of the Month we will be attending the Dancing Under The Stars fund raiser for Ronald McDonald House. Stay tuned! Stay inspired!