For my fifth and final year, I will be taking part in the motionball event at Bishop's University! My friend Charley and I have spent the last few months leading our executive committee and creating change on campus regarding the use of the ‘R’ word through our #NoGoodWay event. Now, it’s time to switch gears to our annual Marathon of Sport event.
motionball is a national non-profit that empowers young Canadians to be leaders in their communities, raising funds and awareness for Special Olympics through integrated social and sporting events. For those who may not know, Special Olympics is very special to me and my family. My late uncle Steven had Down Syndrome and participated in Special Olympic events (swimming, track, you name it!) from age five until his passing. Special Olympics gave my uncle a sense of community, friendship, and positive self-identity. My grandmother Mary, who passed in April, 2019, not only made sure that he was there for all of his practices and competitions, volunteered at many events over the years, and was his #1 cheerleader. The reason behind why I have put so much effort into making this event as big and impactful as it can be is to recreate the love and support my grandmother had for my uncle. If I can make a fraction of the difference in someone’s life as my grandmother did for my uncle, I know I can move forward from my time on this committee feeling proud of what we have done.
A donation to motionball is critical in supporting athletes and their families like my late uncle and grandmother. A donation supports Special Olympic athletes who participate at every level; from those who bring home gold medals and make Canada proud on the world stage to the thousands who look forward to weekly practice for fitness, fun, and friendship. You are supporting the parents, siblings, caregivers and friends of individuals with intellectual disabilities who imagine a world of inclusion and endless possibilities.
I hope that my continued efforts with motionball and Special Olympics can make a difference in the lives of these incredible athletes. Our goal this year as a school is to raise over $12,000 for this cause, and my personal goal is $1000. This is my final year with motionball UBishop’s, so I want to close out my time with this wonderful committee with a bang!
Thank you for your consideration in donating. Any support is greatly appreciated.
To keep up with our events on campus, follow us on Instagram @motionballubishops. For more information on motionball, visit www.motionball.com