David Thompson began his journey with Special Olympics Wisconsin seven years ago after a friend asked him to participate in a local basketball practice. At the time, David was a victim of bullying and was looking for a way to gain new friends. Little did he know, his life was about to change for the better in more ways than one.
Once David became immersed in Special Olympics, he started to make new friends and became serious about changing his health for the better. “When I started to play sports in Special Olympics, I could really feel the effects of being overweight; so I took it into my own hands to change my life by starting a diet and working out,” Thompson said. “The workouts weren’t too physical at first but as I began to see results, I started to step it up a little bit.”
With the help of Special Olympics, David – slowly but surely – developed a new health routine. He changed his diet and continued to be physically active in order to drop weight. Through his perseverance, David has emerged not only as an athlete leader for Special Olympics, but also as a role model to others in his community.
“My life wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t for this amazing organization. Without their help, I don’t know who or what I would be. I’ve learned throughout my life that if you want something you have to go out and work for it, it doesn’t just come to you,” shares David.
The Special Olympics experience fills a critical need in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) by providing opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and the demonstration of ability to themselves, their families and the community.
→ You can help reveal the champion in athletes like David. This tax season, do something special. Make a contribution to Special Olympics Wisconsin by designating an amount in the “Donations” section of your state income tax form. For more information on how to donate, please visit /taxcheckoff/.
