The bonds between our Special Olympics athletes and their families are at the heart of many triumphs, challenges, and celebrations in our organization. This sentiment is especially true with two remarkable Special Olympics athletes, Darby Taylor and Mark Mengersen, as well as their supportive moms, Sue McDermott and Karen Mengersen. Their stories highlight the incredible impact of family involvement in the Special Olympics community and the personal growth that comes with participation.
For Darby Taylor, Special Olympics is more than just a sporting event. Darby’s enthusiasm for sports is matched only by the support he receives from his family. “My Dad volunteers as a coach for floor hockey and bocce, and my mom volunteers at curling. They also help me train and prepare for competitions,” says Darby. “My sister is also a Special Olympics athlete, so our whole family is involved and supporting me!”
Darby’s family’s support doesn’t stop at the training grounds. “My family and friends always tell me they are proud of me and tease me that I’m a celebrity when I’m interviewed about Special Olympics,” Darby adds. For Darby, having the support of his family means everything. “My family’s help and support mean a lot to me because I find my strength and encouragement from my parents as much as from my coaches. My parents have told me that the most important things when I’m training and competing are good sportsmanship and having fun.”
Sue McDermott, Darby’s mom shared that “seeing Darby gain confidence and succeed in life has been the most rewarding aspect of his participation. Special Olympics has given our two special needs young adults such a fulfilling life—a life filled with fitness, fun, good friends, and great events.” Sue encourages other families to get involved with the organization, saying, “If you have a member of your family with an intellectual disability, I would say, ‘what are you waiting for?’ The whole family will benefit from all that Special Olympics can do for your special needs family member—they will learn to play sports, have great opportunities, and make good friends.”
Mark, an athlete from Olds, Alberta, has found a sense of community, confidence, and adventure through his involvement in Special Olympics. His journey has taken him to incredible places, including being part of Team Alberta in 5 Pin Bowling in Vancouver in 2014, and Team Canada in 10 Pin Bowling in Abu Dhabi in 2019.
Mark’s family has been instrumental in his success, and his mom, Karen, emphasizes the wider impact of Special Olympics on their family. “It shows that even if a person has a disability, they can do so much more than expected.” Karen’s involvement with Special Olympics began when Mark was just four years old, and she continues to serve as a volunteer. “Our family started volunteering when Mark was 4, and I became part of the organization officially when Mark started bowling and athletics in 1994, first as Family Representative and eventually as Chairman and bowling coach,” Karen shares. For her, Special Olympics has provided a strong sense of belonging, not just for Mark, but for their entire family.
For families considering becoming involved with Special Olympics, Karen has a simple yet powerful message: “The sky is the limit! Mark has accomplished so much and met so many people all around the world. Special Olympics also gives families a sense of belonging. Our families in Special Olympics have a wealth of information and are more than willing to help someone else on the journey.”
As we continue to celebrate the achievements of athletes like Darby and Mark, we invite other families to join the Special Olympics organization and experience the joy, camaraderie, and growth that come with being part of this incredible community.
If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about how you can get involved, click here. Together, we can help athletes achieve their dreams and continue building a more inclusive, supportive community for everyone.
By: Naomi Eykelbosh