Fran & Clifford
Fran and Clifford have both been involved with Special Olympics for many years, and this Mother’s Day they shared with us how Special Olympics has been a positive part of their lives.
Clifford, who competes in Special Olympics floor hockey and softball, credits his mom for being his biggest cheerleader. “Mom cheers me on when I'm playing hockey and softball,” says Clifford. “She also drives me to practices and she is my hockey coach!” For him, the support doesn't stop at the rink or the field. “Mom always tells me when I'm doing well and encourages me to work hard and always do my best.”
Fran’s involvement with Clifford’s training goes beyond just being a fan. She’s an integral part of his sporting journey, coaching him and motivating him to strive for excellence. “Mom believes in me and knows I work hard,” shared Clifford. “I try to score goals and home runs, and Mom cheers for me even if that doesn't happen. She’s my number one fan.”
Having his mom by his side means everything to Clifford, especially when things get tough. “Having Mom’s support makes me happy,” he says. “I feel lucky that she is always with me. Mom cheers me up, and we have fun on the road trips, even if we don’t win.”
For Fran, watching Clifford grow both as an athlete and a person has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being involved with Special Olympics. “I have watched Clifford grow as a person and an athlete during his time with Special Olympics,” she shares. “He has made friends for life and traveled across Canada, enjoying experiences he wouldn’t have otherwise.”
Special Olympics has not only impacted Clifford, but it has also brought Fran’s family closer together. “Special Olympics has made our family larger,” Fran explains. “My husband and children are very fond of the friends and athletes who are Clifford’s family of choice. Because of this, they are our family of choice too.”
Being part of this special community has also deeply affected Fran’s perspective on inclusivity and perseverance. “My respect for the athletes, volunteers, and staff with Special Olympics has grown immensely. It’s an honor to unite for the betterment of this extraordinary community,” she says. “We all work toward a common goal of inclusivity, acceptance, and integrity.”
When asked what message Clifford wants to share with his mom this Mother’s Day, he said; “Mom, I want to thank you for helping me. I love you, and we stick together through thick and thin.”
Fran also has a message for other parents with children with disabilities: “I encourage all parents of children with disabilities to join the most amazing and fulfilling Special Olympics community. You will make friends, enjoy sports, compete if you choose to, and your world will become bigger and brighter.”
This Mother’s Day, we celebrate the unwavering love, support, and dedication that families like Clifford and Fran’s bring to the Special Olympics community, proving that together, we are stronger.
Natalie & Nathan
For Nathan, a Calgary based Special Olympics athlete, his mom plays a key role in his success and enjoyment of sports, providing unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way.
Nathan, who competes in sports like pickleball, basketball, and soccer, says that his mom helps him stay motivated and engaged. “She listens to music with me, gets me the stuff I need to play better, and practices with me. She even gives me treats!”
When things get challenging in training or competitions, Nathan knows he can rely on his mom. “I would be cooked without support,” he jokes. “She makes me believe that I can do it.” With her belief in him, Nathan pushes himself to always give his best.
For Nathan’s mom, the most rewarding aspect of seeing her son participate in Special Olympics is watching him enjoy success and feel proud of his accomplishments. “Seeing how happy he is when he’s doing well makes me feel good,” she says. “Nathan is so happy when he plays pickleball, basketball, and soccer, and it’s incredible to see him enjoy himself and realize he can do it.”
Being part of the Special Olympics community has brought their family closer together. “It makes Nathan feel included and gives him opportunities like those of his brother,” she shares. “We can now attend his programs as a family, and Nathan has had some great opportunities, especially in pickleball and bowling.”
Nathan’s mom has also seen her perspective on sports, perseverance, and inclusivity evolve through their involvement. “Special Olympics has given us hope. Before, I couldn’t find opportunities for kids like Nathan,” she explains. “Special Olympics includes everyone, no matter their age.”
Her message to other parents of children with disabilities is clear: “I always want to tell everyone to try Special Olympics. It’s a welcoming community with many programs to choose from.”
This Mother’s Day, Nathan and his mom celebrate their journey together, with the support of Special Olympics providing not only opportunities in sports but also a chance to create lasting memories as a family.
By: Naomi Eykelbosh