Justin Esala

City: Ashland, WI

Sport: Swimming

Years Involved with Special Olympics: 11 years

What makes you most proud? It makes me proud to know how far I have come and I will continue to go.

How has Special Olympics changed your life? I started Special Olympics when I was 9 years old. Back then, I had trouble making friends, was really shy, and would stay in the Special Education room for most of the day. I was a picky eater and my parents didn’t know what life would hold for me. Special Olympics helped me learn determination, perseverance, and kindness.