Here are some ways you can support your child with an intellectual or learning disability:

1. Educate Yourself

You can be a better advocate by educating yourself about your child’s intellectual or learning disability. Researching, consulting with specialists and maintaining a list of things that your child might be struggling with is a great start. Once you’re aware of their challenges, you can come up with solutions to support them in their growth. Keep up to date with your child’s progress and keep educating yourself about further steps.  

Take the example of Joan Iven Jamora-Abello, whose son Joachim has autism and ADHD. He didn’t speak until age 3 and struggled to follow instructions or develop social skills. Joan equipped herself with knowledge by pursuing a Masters in Special Education.  Joachim became the subject of her thesis. As part of her internship, she worked at an Integrated School, for children with and without disabilities where Joachim was enrolled. He started behavioural therapy, special education classes, as well as a Special Olympics Young Athletes sport and play program to improve his motor, cognitive and social skills. Joan’s unwavering support helped Joachim find his confidence, and allowed him to develop his talent in sports, music, and the arts.

2. Encourage their independence 

Let your child try new things and encourage them to complete tasks by themselves. Provide guidance when it’s needed and give positive feedback when your child does something well or masters something new. Expose them to new experiences and social circles. Give them the confidence to fight and conquer their own battles. 

One such parent is Tehmina Azim whose son Asim was diagnosed with autism at the age of 5. He had speech and learning issues. Tehmina exposed Asim to sports at an early age. When he was 8, he travelled without his family, with his athletics team to his first Special Olympics competition in Lahore, where he won his first medal. At 14, she exposed him to a new sport – swimming. He was afraid to get into the pool at first, but his coach convinced her to let go. Today, Asim is a gold medalist, having represented Pakistan in swimming at the Special Olympics World Games. Tehmina’s advice to all parents of children with disabilities is not to hide them. She says, “Come out of your bubble, and receive support.”  

3. Involve them in group activities 

Enrolling them in art classes, athletic activities and social groups will help your child with intellectual disabilities build their social skills, confidence and advance in core developmental milestones. They learn how to play with others and develop important skills for learning. They can also learn to share, take turns and follow directions. These skills will help them in family, community and school activities.

Fahsai Saejang was born with Down Syndrome and a hole in her heart. When she was 4, her parents enrolled her in Special Olympics Young Athletes, a sport and play program for children of all abilities at her school. She was encouraged to play games, and make friends with other children. She was shy before but eventually came out of her shell. She’s learnt to follow instructions and is now able to help her parents with chores. The physical activities have also made her stronger, and she is no longer on medication for her heart defect.  

Families are the number one fans of Special Olympics athletes worldwide. You give the type of love, support and encouragement that no one else can. Being a role model and source of strength for your children helps them with their growth. Find out how you can be a part of the family support network here.

The post 3 Ways To Support Your Child With Intellectual Disability appeared first on Human RACE.

 A difficult childhood 

Te Huia was born with autism, intellectual disability, and epilepsy. When he first moved in with us, he barely talked. He had very little structure in his early years. My grandchildren were part of an athletics club at the time, and I got him to join them when he was about 9. Through the club, we learnt about Special Olympics in New Zealand.  

While he’s earned the nickname “Rocket Man” for his success in running, Te Huia’s race through his early life has not been easy. He was in a special needs unit in school, but struggled to fit in. Teachers there seemed to expect him to behave like a mainstream student. They didn’t understand that if they put too much pressure on him, he would not cope. They would teach him numbers one day, but he would forget what was taught a few days later and they would get upset with him. The pressure would often overwhelm him and cause him to have meltdowns.  

He’s had a few meltdowns in public, and some people have passed horribly callous comments like “he should have been put down at birth” or that “he needs to be on drugs”. People can be so cruel. Usually, I just tell them to back off and leave him alone.  

One time, we were at a swimming event at his High School, and one of the mainstream students who had been put into the wrong event turned around and yelled, “How dare they put me in with the retards!” I was so upset, but I held myself back from telling the boy off publicly. I knew that his attitude had likely been shaped by his parents or the people around him, and it wasn’t his fault. I was disappointed too that the teachers didn’t correct him then. 

Finding his passion through sport 

Te Huia has been with Special Olympics for 14 years now, and loves being part of the team. It provides him an inclusive environment where he’s accepted and respected for his talents. He’s great at long distance running. His best events are the 3,000m and 1,500m. He’s accumulated a room full of medals over the years – every single one a testament of what he’s capable of. How many of us have bragging rights to 6 marathons, 40 half marathons, and several triathlons? 

Some people ask me why Te Huia isn’t employed, and I ask them right back, “Are you going to give him a job?” The answer, sadly, is usually no. He’s had several attempts to find work, but somehow, things have not worked out. He was working in a rest home helping with general cleaning, but because he was not provided with proper supervision, some residents got upset with him and he had to leave. Another time, he was employed doing simple baking, but unfortunately, the shop closed, and the staff had to be let go. These days, he keeps busy with chores and odd jobs for friends, as well as tasks on my daughter’s farm. 

Seeing beyond disability 

I wish the world can see what I see – that Te Huia is an amazing young man. He’s got such a good heart. He is polite and never vicious or nasty to other people. Even when he gets overwhelmed, he doesn’t hurt others, but he will beat himself up. When he was younger, he would really beat himself terribly, but as he grew older, we’ve channeled this energy to his running. It’s been so rewarding to see what he’s accomplished through sports.  

Running has empowered him to find his strength, his confidence and his voice. Apart from Special Olympics, Te Huia also trains with another running group for persons with disabilities, Achilles. We met trainers who got him started on triathlons. He’s been so disciplined and focused on his training that he completed a half Ironman last Christmas, and the experience was awesome. He’s made so many friends through sports, and has earned quite a reputation for himself in the community for being unstoppable! 

Our days together are busy and fulfilling. We’re never just sitting idle. We’re usually out for a run, a bike ride, swimming, at the gym, sports training, grocery shopping, or visiting family and friends. If we’re home, we have a personal trainer that comes train with Te Huia, or we’ll be catching up on chores. The lockdown during Covid-19 was challenging. We channeled his energy into jigsaw puzzles, chores like mowing the lawn, and cooking. Te Huia is a great cook. His favourite dishes are healthy stewed vegetables and meat. 

Looking towards the future 

We are looking forward to the Special Olympics New Zealand national games later this year where Te Huia will get to compete again. In fact, his biggest dream is to be able to represent his country one day and inspire the world with what he can do.  

My message to all parents of children or adults with special needs is to get them into sport. It is such a healthy way to build their confidence and social skills and include them as part of the larger community. 

I hope to one day see a kinder society where no one is judged. Don’t look at someone’s disability, look inside, and see what people are really like. When people get to know Te Huia, they realize he’s such a dream. They say I’ve done a good job as a foster parent, but I tell them it’s because I had a superb base to work with. We didn’t do much, we simply brought out all the good that was already in him.  

To borrow the words of Condoleezza Rice, “Every life is worthy, and every life is capable of greatness. We have an obligation to make sure that opportunity for greatness is there.”  

The post Finding Greatness appeared first on Human RACE.

Syed Ali Roshan first got to know Haseeb Abassi, a Special Olympics athlete leader with autism, when he watched his TedX speech 5 years ago. Roshan became an instant fan. Today, the pair are best friends, having stood by each other through their proudest milestones and worst setbacks. They have travelled the world together, advocating for inclusive environments that allow people with intellectual disabilities to thrive. Meet this inspirational duo, who share what makes their friendship tick! 

Q: When and how did you meet? 

Haseeb: I met Roshan for the first time on Autism Day in Islamabad, at a cycling event. With a big smile, he shook hands with me. I was shy at first, but when he told me that he heard great things about me and watched my TedX talk, I was so happy! He was really impressed with my cycling as well. That day, we even cycled together. I introduced him to my mom too. 

Roshan: I had the opportunity to listen to Haseeb’s TedX Talk a year before I actually met him, so meeting him wasn’t any less than meeting a celebrity for me! His speech was captivating, and I was struck with awe. I introduced myself to him and told him that I was extremely inspired by his journey. 

Q: Over the course of your friendship, what did you learn from each other? 

Haseeb: Roshan always gave me the confidence, support and encouragement I needed. Whether I’m about to go on stage for a speech, or preparing for a presentation, he’s always right there next to me. He has helped me become a more independent person. I used to struggle with money management but Roshan has helped me to handle cash competently. He also taught me how to use tools like MS Word and MS Excel, which really helped me grow my business and find a job. Yes, he’s the reason I can use technology comfortably now.  

Roshan: I’m Haseeb’s mentor and friend, but most importantly, a huge fan of his! It’s incredible to be in his company and watch him accomplish anything he sets his mind to. His achievements are extraordinary for any person, regardless of ability or disability. His ambition and consistency towards achieving his goals is unbelievable and it remains the most valuable lesson he’s taught me in life. He always wanted to get higher education and despite being rejected from several institutes, he got a diploma in special education and went on to the Allama Iqbal University in a bachelor’s program. He wanted to earn his own living but despite his best efforts, no one wanted to hire him. So, he became an entrepreneur and started his own juice bar, Squeezy, and this enabled him to get his first job at a university. He doesn’t accept no for an answer, he keeps trying, no matter what.  

Q: How do you usually spend your time together?  

Haseeb: I love to travel and Roshan is my travelling companion. Singapore is my favourite place to be outside Pakistan. I love having ice cream at Marina Bay. We’ve also been to Indonesia and UAE together. At home, we love going on cycling adventures together. In fact, one of my greatest achievements that I’m so proud of, is the time we went to Khunjerab Pass, the highest border crossing in the world.  

Roshan: I enjoy Haseeb’s company. I feel a sense of comfort in talking to him about anything, including personal issues. He’s probably the best person to confide in and he keeps all my secrets safe. We love going to movies and concerts together. Being the certified foodies that we both are, we love to explore good food and hang out at different restaurants. These days, nothing beats sitting outside Squeezy, Haseeb’s juice bar, and enjoying each other’s company with a refreshing drink in the afternoon. 

Q: What is your fondest memory together? 

Haseeb: Roshan’s wedding last year! I danced like no one’s watching, took amazing photos, met all his friends and cousins, and had the yummiest food. I’ve never been happier for him. I was in such a good mood that it was one of the few times I wasn’t afraid of the fireworks. Other than that, the 2019 Special Olympics Summer Games in Abu Dhabi is also one of my favourite memories with him. Going for desert safaris, riding on camels, watching the sunset and sandboarding for the first time – that’s just a glimpse of the amazing trip we had! 

Roshan: I’m not sure where to start. My favourite memories would be from the time when I used to travel with Haseeb. The World Games in 2019, where Haseeb was owning the stage, while I was backstage, with my legs shaking. Going to different schools all across Pakistan and inspiring kids to be inclusive, playing unified sports together, going for hikes and cycling, visiting each other at home – my list might never end! 

Q: Describe your best friend in one word.  

Haseeb: Positive 

Roshan: Inspirational! 

The post From Fans to Friends to Family appeared first on Human RACE.

This International Day of Families, get to know some of Special Olympics’ not-so-ordinary families and how they inspired growth!

Families will always be proud of you: When people tell Madam May Faruza, a mother of five, how unfortunate it is to have a child with an intellectual disability, she turns to them and replies, ‘no, it’s a blessing’. Her youngest son, Ulfee, is 27 years old and has autism. He was born with an IQ of 42, impaired vision and hearing, as well as delays in his speech development. When she first found out during her pregnancy that Ulfee would be a special child, she was angry and upset. But the moment she held her baby in her arms, she was filled with pride and was determined to change her thinking. She learnt to listen, and interact better with him. She enrolled him in sports and became his loudest cheerleader. Today, Ulfee is a decorated athlete, and leads an independent life earning his own keep at a café. Mum couldn’t be prouder! 

Families are selfless and generous, no matter what they have: Marcia Lai’s son, Filmer, was born with pilocytic astrocytoma, a rare form of brain tumour. By the age of 10, he had undergone five brain surgeries. Marcia had to sell their house to afford Filmer’s medical bills. She also gave up her job to spend time with her son. So did her husband, Galvin, who had a job in electronic sales. Together, they moved to more flexible jobs to ensure they could spend more quality time with Filmer. They nurtured his love for baking. With the support of his family, Filmer now runs his own online bakery. This young entrepreneur has an exciting venture called ‘Filmer’s Chiffon Cakes’. 

Families know you’re limitless: Meet the inspiring family of Dr. Dindo Astom and Dr. Arlyn Astom, who are proud parents of five beautiful children. Their eldest son, Aaron, was diagnosed with autism when he was 3. Their youngest children, Daniel and Gabriel, were also found to have autism. People often ask them if it’s tough to bring up three children with autism. But for them, this is their normal. As a family, they go to the movies, they travel, they go swimming. They are not limited in any way, and they refuse to take no for an answer. In their words, “we do not believe in giving up; especially not on our own children!”

Today (and everyday), we at Special Olympics want to take a moment to thank our family – YOU! You’ve covered milestones with us, supported us in our cause and brought our athletes closer to their dream of leading meaningful lives. Thank you for being our family! 

The post My Family, My Support System appeared first on Human RACE.

Meet three Special Olympics athletes living with autism to understand, accept and embrace their uniqueness:

• Grace Payne: She’s a basketball champ from New Zealand who’s carving a niche for herself in the circuit nationally and internationally. This Special Olympics athlete leader competes in basketball, football and powerlifting, and has been a passionate advocate for creating inclusive environments that allow people with intellectual disabilities to thrive and lead their best lives.
  
  “What needs to be understood is, people are born with autism. They do not develop it. It’s a neurological disease. And all people with autism are different. One person might not have the same symptoms as another. Autism is not linear in nature. I like to see it as more of a wheel with different colors, where each color represents a different aspect, like communicative abilities, sensory needs etc. While I might be able to communicate properly, I can have trouble driving. Likewise, someone else might be able to drive with ease, but have difficulty in communication. 

• Haseeb Abbasi:  He is a business owner from Pakistan. While it was an uphill task for him to convince landowners that people with autism like himself are capable of running successful enterprises, he never gave up. He met with a lot of resistance, and many people he approached turned him away.  But passion and grit have shaped his dreams into reality.
  
  “My hope is to be able to work independently and earn my own living. My vision is that people with intellectual disabilities will all be given employment opportunities, and be empowered with skills to eventually run their own businesses.”

• Benjamin Haack: He is an athlete leader from Australia and has been involved in Special Olympics for 16 years. An inspirational athlete, accomplished football and cricket player, Ben has been fighting for inclusion at a national, regional, and global level as a member of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors. He has advocated the message of inclusion all over the world, and the importance of treating people with respect and dignity. He believes that our voices are the most powerful tool to change the world.
  
  “Our society still works in a way where people believe that those with intellectual disabilities offer very little value and that we must prepare the family and the community for the worst. It is a common mindset that people like me are full of defects, and we need extra resources and attention in order to get anything out of us. If we slow down and provide everyone with an inclusive environment to show what they can do, the results can be amazing.”
  
  This World Autism Day, we’re coming together to create a more inclusive and unified world, where everyone can achieve their potential and live their dreams. Will you join us in creating One World?

The post Celebrating World Autism Day – Shine On! appeared first on Human RACE.

– Grace Payne

Meet Grace Payne, a Special Olympics New Zealand athlete leader with autism who competes in basketball, football, and powerlifting. She has been a passionate advocate for creating inclusive environments that allow people with intellectual disabilities to thrive and lead their best lives. Want to know how to be a better ally and create a more inclusive world?  Grace shares some answers as she gives us a glimpse into her typical day.   

Question: What is a typical day like for you?
Answer: I wake up, have breakfast, which is usually oats and protein because it tastes great and is good for my health. I follow a diet plan given to me by my coach. I love taking time out to do some activities that make me happy, like painting my nails or making tie-dye shirts, I also love to do makeup from time to time!

Question: What was school like for you?
Answer: I quite liked school. I know a lot of people didn’t, but it was different for me. I have attended mainstream schools as well as schools for children with special needs. My favorite subjects were music and physical education. I also loved the Individual Evaluation Program, where each student has individual goals that he or she aims to achieve. Speaking of least favorite subjects, honestly, I don’t think I had any!

Question: How are mainstream schools different from schools for students with special needs?
Answer: One of the primary differences in schools for students with special needs was that they make learning as visual as possible. The timetables, mode of teaching, stories- all of it is visual.

Question: What were some challenges you faced at school?
Answer: Although fitting into school wasn’t a big obstacle for me, I did face a few challenges. Finger-pointing children, questioning “what’s wrong with you?”, “Are you pregnant?” it’s just hurtful. I wish people would stop doing that. As someone who faced bullying during childhood, I think the best advice I have for people who might be going through something similar in their life is- please talk about it. I didn’t, but I should have. Talk to people you trust. They can be your friends, family, teachers, anyone you feel comfortable with!

Question: What did you pursue in higher education and what did you like most about your education?
Answer: I’ve studied Early Childhood Education to fulfill my dream of becoming a teacher for children with and without intellectual disabilities. During my education in Early Childhood studies, I grew particularly fond of the subject ‘Cultural Partnerships’, where the cultures, ethnicities, and religions of students across the world are taught to aspiring teachers. I believe it’s an important subject because, in my opinion, everybody needs to learn a little bit about different cultures, to make the world more inclusive. I met people from across the globe, I made friends. It’s been amazing!

Question: What are common misconceptions about people with intellectual disabilities?
Answer: People often tend to believe that those with intellectual disabilities can’t be independent and rely on others to live their lives. A lot of us can live independently, like everyone else. We can work, we can go to school, we can carry out tasks. Some people may take longer than others to do things, and that’s okay. We all adapt differently.

Question: What do you wish people knew about autism?
Answer: The first thing is, people are born with autism. They do not develop it. It’s a neurological disease. The second thing is- all people with autism are different. One person might not have the same symptoms as another. People think of autism as a spectrum, somewhat linear in nature. I like to see it as more of a wheel with different colors, where each color represents a different facet, like communicative abilities, sensory needs etc. While I might be able to communicate properly, I can have trouble driving. Likewise, someone else might be able to drive with ease, but have difficulty in communication.

Question: How do you build awareness about people with intellectual disabilities?
Answer: I like social media. I use it as a medium for raising awareness. One thing we all can and must do is help our families and friends understand intellectual disability better. The cycle doesn’t stop with one person. You educate your friends; they educate theirs and so on. Another thing I do is visit schools or organizations and talk about intellectual disability. I think it’s imperative to educate children, so that they grow up to ask the right questions. People can be curious, but they tend to overlook the need to word their questions properly. Instead of saying “what’s wrong with you”, the question should be “what’s your disability?”

Question: What have you been working on lately?
Answer: I’m currently working on a transportation app like Uber with Jack Green, a Youth Leader. The app, named ‘SOGO’ is built for the Special Olympics community of people with intellectual disabilities. The idea is to have volunteer drivers pick up athletes and drop them to trainings, to make sure nobody feels excluded. I think if we take away their feelings of isolation and exclusion, we can improve their mental health!

Grace’s hope is to see this world become a more inclusive place for people like her. Her advice to all of us? “Life doesn’t come with a manual; I didn’t get one. Keep being yourself, don’t change for anyone! Whatever you’re going through, you’ll get through it. I promise you!”

The post Leading The Way For An Inclusive World appeared first on Human RACE.

• Vivek Kumar Singh: Hit by a tragic accident which left him partially blind when he was a child, Vivek Kumar Singh has never let his disability stop him from fulfilling his dream of becoming a national athlete. A firm believer in the power of sports to change lives, he has also been serving as a volunteer with Special Olympics since 2005. Vivek has been reaching out to the most isolated, organizing games and sporting activities for children with intellectual disabilities in rural villages across India, to develop their motor and social skills.   

“I can’t wait to see the day that every young athlete has the opportunity to develop into proud, confident representatives of India on the world sporting stage. The world must understand that athletes with intellectual disabilities deserve the same and more.” 

-Vivek Kumar Singh 

Read the full story of Vivek’s extraordinary journey HERE

• Baljit Rana Singh:  Meet these extraordinary parents, Inderjeet and Baljit Rana Singh. Their eldest son, Samarpratap, was born with a tumor in his brain and spent the first few years of his life enduring multiple surgeries, treatments and hospital visits. The family came close to losing him when he was just 3. Despite the  odds, they have always kept the faith that their child would be able to grow up happy, healthy and safe.  Their hope is simple: for him to be able to speak, express his thoughts and be independent.  

“Just one day at a time, with baby steps forward as we go. That’s enough.” 

-Baljit Rana Singh

Read this incredible family’s full story HERE

• Noraini Amin: Noraini Amin learnt that she was going to have a child with Down syndrome in the sixth month of her pregnancy, and was asked by her doctors then to make a life-defining decision. She knew that she would have to work a little harder to raise this special child, but it never crossed her mind not to have her. Today, her daughter Hadbaa is 8 and is their little bundle of joy! Strangers sometimes point at her and ask ‘why does she look like that? What’s wrong with her?’, but Noraini never lets it get to her or her daughter. She has been watching protectively over Hadbaa, refusing to let the judgment of others stop them from living their best lives. 

 “To every parent with a special child, my message does not hide them. We mustn’t let the fear of people stop our children from exploring the world.” 

-Noraini Amin

Read this loving mother’s full story HERE

• Drs Arlyn and Dindo Astom: Meet an extraordinary duo who are guardian angels to five beautiful children. Their eldest son, Aaron, now 22, was diagnosed with autism when he was 3 and their youngest twins, Daniel and Gabriel, were also found to have autism. When people ask them how tough it is to bring up three children with autism, they say that they are not limited in any way. They have guided these young ones to become independent and well-respected individuals. Their children never fail to inspire them and do them proud with their achievements. Gabriel loves to sing and even won a singing contest some time ago. He also took part in a poetry contest. The Astoms believe that with or without a disability, we can all live life to the fullest. Sometimes, all it takes is a little improvisation and patience. 

“We do not believe in giving up, especially not on our own children.” 

-Drs Arlyn and Dindo Astom

Read this beautiful family’s full story HERE 

• Joan Iven Jamora-Abello: Meet a guardian angel who has gone the distance to ensure a full and happy life for her son, Joachim. Joachim was diagnosed with autism at a young age and struggled to follow instructions. When Joan found out about her son’s condition, she was in shock and grieved for a long period of time. As someone who excelled at everything she did, she had a hard time accepting her son’s condition. She had numerous sleepless nights and tough days. But she never gave up hope. After quitting her corporate job and taking up teaching full time, she made it her life’s goal to not only educate her family, but the world about children with intellectual disabilities. Today, Joachim is budding into a confident young man with multiple talents, from singing to drawing to swimming! 

“Children are gifts. Typical or atypical, we must give them the opportunity to spread their wings. It is up to us to discover their talents and potential.” 

-Joan Iven Jamora-Abello

Read the full story of this inspirational mother and son HERE

These angels have made the world better and more inclusive, by taking a step to support thousands of children with intellectual disabilities. You, too, can be their guardian angel.  No step is too small.  Take your first one today and give these children the #GiftofInclusion!  

The post Guardian Angels Exist appeared first on Human RACE.

“This is not a playground, please teach your child some discipline.” A stranger said to my mother and walked away before my mom Joan could explain that I have autism. With tears in her eyes, my mom left with me in hand, without completing her shopping.  

My name is Joachim Isaac, lovingly known as ‘Akim’, and this is my story. 

I spoke my first word after 3 years old, and soon after was diagnosed with autism. Growing up, my parents constantly worried about me because I was slower than others, and had trouble following instructions. You could ask me to stand in a line, and I would jump, and flap my arms as though I’m flying! The other kids would laugh when I randomly ran around the classroom. My family soon learnt that I also had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).    

At 4 years old, my mom brought me to my first Special Olympics Young Athletes session. I was SO excited that I could not stop running, jumping, tripping, falling all around. I was in love with the throwing and catching exercises. Finally! Something I was good at! 

My favourite activity of the day was the morning obstacle course run in the field. I could quickly run over all the obstacles. It made me so happy! 

I also love meeting and greeting people, so whenever I see a new face, I push them and jump on them out of excitement. I met so many people at my swimming class too and just enjoyed splashing water on them. My teachers sometimes get tired of trying to teach me, but my parents believed in me and always encouraged me, letting me continue learning at my own pace.  

Last year, I swam an entire lap all by myself. I am truly a water baby. Today, I also know how to do the breaststroke and front crawl. I never thought I would be able to swim so well,  but as they say, never give up!  

Every night before sleeping, I ask God to bless me, my autism and ADHD. I truly believe that the universe listens to me and my family’s prayers. As long as we have faith, fate will always find a way for everyone and all our unique talents.  

Today, besides swimming I also love painting, sketching and singing. I love expressing my thoughts and emotions in pictures and songs. Today I know that life is filled with colours for me to explore and create, and to achieve my own milestones, in my own time. 

To find out more about how to be part of the #WalkForInclusion campaign, please download our summary guide here. We thank you for your generosity and look forward to your participation!

The post At my own pace appeared first on Human RACE.

They’re the ones who celebrate with us when we win and motivate us to go on when we give up. There are teachers all around, sparking new ideas within us and inspiring us to realize our full potential. 

Teacher (noun) 

1. One who inspires, guides, enlightens and motivates 

2. A tireless, dedicated professional who transforms the lives of others 

3. One who makes the world a better place 

This Teacher’s Day, we celebrate the efforts of a unique set of teachers who dedicate themselves to making this world a more inclusive place for all! Here are four role models we’re glad to have in our lives:  

Sarah Dalton – The one who teaches us never to give up 

“At horse riding, I legit get back on the horse, but in life in general, I always try to get back on the horse; climb that mountain again.” 

Sarah, an athlete leader with Special Olympics New Zealand, was born with CHARGE Syndrome, a rare condition that affects almost all her senses and organs, Living with CHARGE Syndrome forces Sarah to make an active effort to work on tasks many of us take for granted, including her balance, sitting, seeing, hearing, swallowing, and even breathing. She was once a subject of vicious bullying in school, but the experience has only made her stronger. Over the years, Sarah has amassed many feathers in her hat and emerged as an accomplished athlete and leader. The equestrian athlete has several accolades for the sport under her belt. The achievement she’s most proud of is the trophy she won at Bartley’s Riding Academy, where she competed against able-bodied people and came out on top. One of the most cheerful and confident people we’ve encountered, Sarah is living proof that happiness is a choice! 

Today, we thank Sarah for teaching us that no one is defined by their disability and that we can all achieve our dreams if we put our minds to it! 

Ben Haack – The one who teaches us that we can all make a difference 

“If we all stop being judgmental, if we slow down and provide everyone with an inclusive environment to show what they can do, the results can be amazing.” 

Ben, an athlete leader with Special Olympics Australia, also serves on the global board of directors for Special Olympics International.   

He has Asperger’s Syndrome and understands that people with intellectual disabilities (ID) often do not get equal access to quality education, employment and health care. He has been speaking all over the world, to amplify the message of treating people with respect and dignity, giving them opportunity and choice. 

Ben believes that our voices are the most powerful tool in changing the world and that we can all be advocates for inclusion. He teaches us that every single one of us has the power to make a real difference in the world! 

Kevan Lee – The one who teaches us that humility is the best teacher  

“Volunteering isn’t about ‘us’ helping or teaching ‘them’. It’s about mutual learning, respect, and making friends. They aren’t ‘beneficiaries’, they’re our buddies and athletes we learn and play with.” 

Kevan, a volunteer coach with Special Olympics Singapore, is involved with both the badminton outreach program for athletes with ID as well as the Young Athletes program for younger children with and without ID. He is a teacher at Saint Anthony’s Canossian Secondary School and has inspired his own students to become volunteers. Together, they have learnt important life lessons from the athletes of Special Olympics, including values of strength, resilience, and grit. 

Travelling to Abu Dhabi with the Singapore Team for the Special Olympics World Summer Games opened Kevan’s eyes to the possibility of sports creating a truly empowered and inclusive world, and he works tirelessly each day to make that happen. In Kevan’s own words, “I hope for our young people, with and without disabilities, to experience life together so that we can create a truly inclusive society with equal opportunities for all!” 

Simran Sahni – The one who teaches us that we can achieve anything we set our minds to 

“I will not stop working for the cause until I see people with intellectual disabilities working in different professional fields and being self-sufficient. I’m committed to transform this society into not just an integrated one, but an inclusive one.” 

Simran is a youth leader who organized Special Olympics Bharat’s first National Youth Summit. She believes in the power of young people to build an inclusive society that is free from all social injustice. As a leading advocate for Unified Leadership, Simran has learnt and taught many invaluable lessons. One of her greatest learnings was taught to her by Shrey Kadian, an athlete with ID, and that was the value of hard work and perseverance. They have helped each other through highs and lows, and she’s even overcome her fear of public speaking, thanks to Shrey’s support.  

At the beginning of her time with Special Olympics Bharat, Simran used to get severe stage fright. But with practice, she gained confidence. Today, she is an accomplished and inspirational speaker! 

Thank you Simran, for being the teacher we needed, for leading by example and giving us the courage to overcome our fears! 

This Teacher’s Day, we thank all our unexpected and extraordinary teachers for the lessons they leave us with, for helping us be better individuals and enriching our lives with knowledge and meaning, but mostly for the realization that there is a teacher within each one of us. We all have something invaluable to offer and we too can become teachers in our own ways! 

The post The Teachers Among Us appeared first on Human RACE.

In the first 3 years, he wouldn’t speak. We enrolled him in a playschool and employed a caregiver for him at home. I couldn’t stop worrying. Later, we moved him to a school with better facilities, hoping that he would clock his milestones and develop social skills.

But during class, we noticed that he struggled to follow instructions. While other children stayed in line, he would run all over the room. Sometimes he would flap his arms, or jump up and down, or scream for no reason. He had to be held, to calm him down.

When he was diagnosed with autism, I was in shock. I grieved for a long time. I was crying so much. I would wake up in the middle of the night in tears. My husband tried his best to help me accept the fact, but it was hard.

I was so used to excelling in everything I did. I was a psychology major in University and did well in the corporate world for almost 13 years before having a baby. I never expected that I would have a child with special needs.

But fate works in miraculous ways. My husband reminded me that I’ve always dreamt of being a teacher. I decided to leave the corporate world, and pursue a masters in special education. Akim became the subject of my thesis. And as part of my internship, I worked at Kids Nook Integrated School, a school for children with and without disabilities.

I enrolled Akim at Kids Nook soon after. He started behavioural therapy and special education classes. He went through another diagnosis. This time, we found they also had Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

I learnt about the Special Olympics Young Athletes Program, a sport and play program that helps improve motor and cognitive skills, which the school adopted. They would let the children start their day with fun physical activities like throwing a ball, batting, and going through obstacle courses, before going to class.

I remember Akim’s first Young Athletes session. He was just 4. He was so excited he kept tripping and falling over everything. But every day, the activities helped a little in his concentration, balance and coordination. Jumping. Throwing. Catching. It was all so simple, easy to replicate at home, and effective. It gave Akim the foundation to build up his health and social skills.

It makes me laugh when I look back now and realize how far he’s come. He’s 10 now and in the second grade. He spent 6 years in kindergarten so he’s a little behind. But it’s ok. We want him to move at his own pace.

The past 10 years have been a test of our faith. We’ve put up with unkind remarks in church, in grocery stores, in restaurants. People stare. They point and whisper. One time, Akim was playing with the ice in the freezer at a supermarket. An elderly lady told me sternly to control him. This is not a playground, she said. She wouldn’t stop complaining about his lack of discipline even after I explained he is a child with autism. Her remarks hurt terribly. I sat in the car in tears. I called my husband and was inconsolable. Why were people so cruel? He was only 6 years old then.

We stopped going to church for 2 months. We stopped attending parties unless we were among close friends and family. People didn’t understand his behaviour. He would push other kids, thinking it was a form of greeting. We didn’t want him to be labelled as a ‘problem child’.

At swim class, he would pull other children’s hair. He would splash around and not train. Parents said they didn’t want him in their classes. I got him individual lessons instead. I’ve lost count of the coaches who have given up and left. My husband suggested we stop the lessons. I said no. Another parent of a child with intellectual disabilities told me never to give up. She went through the same thing. Her child is now a Special Olympics gold medalist, representing the Philippines.

Then one day, it just happened. Six years after we first enrolled him, he swam an entire lap. Now, he can swim the breaststroke and the front crawl.

My experiences made me stronger as a mother and an advocate. I wanted to educate not just my family, but the world. If everyone can have a ‘person-first’ mindset, the world will be a better place.

I joined the parent organizations to learn more about Akim’s condition. I spoke to neighbours, friends and their children about Akim and his disability. Now, when he sneaks out of the house and goes around playing with doorbells, they understand. Or when they hear him screaming, they do not judge or complain. At parties, their children play with him.

He’s learnt to set himself a routine. He starts every day with a workout. There is time for art, phone, TV. We use a timer. He knows that he has to wait. I started him on virtual art classes during the lockdown and uncovered a hidden talent. Akim is a natural artist. Some of his works were showcased in a virtual exhibition recently.

My son loves to sing. He has an angelic voice. We have since returned to the church and the priest said he can join the choir once the pandemic is over and we can all meet in person again.

Children are gifts. Typical or atypical, we must give them the opportunity to spread their wings. It is up to us to discover their talents and potential. My hope for Akim is simple. I want him to be independent, healthy, happy, and have a career he loves. Maybe in the arts, in music, or in sports. Who knows? Sky’s the limit.

My mother used to teach Akim when he was very little, to pray for God to cure him of autism. Now, his nightly prayer goes like this, “God, bless me, bless my autism and my ADHD.”

To find out more about how to be part of the #WalkForInclusion campaign, please download our summary guide here. We thank you for your generosity and look forward to your participation!

The post A Mother’s Prayer appeared first on Human RACE.