By Lucy Meyer

I was born with cerebral palsy because I did not get oxygen for five minutes at birth. When I was just a few days old, the doctors told my parents that there was a very good chance that I would never sit up or swallow.

The doctors were wrong. I swallow lots of different foods REALLY well! As you can see, I can sit up. I can play sports and have even won GOLD MEDALS in Special Olympics swimming competition!

I have been in Special Olympics for two years. I compete in swimming and love it! Even though I have special needs, I still do everything! This year I got to compete in the 2014 USA Special Olympics Games in New Jersey and stay in the Olympic village. It was so fun!

Special Olympics means so much to me and to others with disabilities. It really does change lives. For many people with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics is the first time that they get to compete in sports. It is a chance to show the world that with some accommodations we are exciting to watch and cheer for — just like athletes without disabilities!

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