It comes as no surprise that supportive, nurturing families are crucial for the success of Special Olympics athletes all around the world. Below are two stories from Special Olympics families in Mexico and Kenya.
Sofia trains as a Unified partner in tennis with her brother Rodrigo who is an athlete with Special Olympics Mexico . Their mother Fernanda has seen Sofia and Rodrigo’s relationship grow and create lasting memories together.
According to Sofia, “Special Olympics Mexico has presented Rodrigo and me with a significant opportunity to grow as people, as individuals and as siblings.”
Effie’s sister Nicole and brother Jeff are Special Olympics Kenya athletes who enjoy playing bocce . She advocates for inclusion on behalf of her siblings and other people with disabilities who are often sidelined and mistreated.
“I decided to use the challenges as a chance to advocate and also create awareness about persons living with intellectual disabilities,” says Effie.
