Stuart is nine years old and a third grader attending Challenger Elementary in Sammamish.  Stuart is in good health and has an active sense of humor.  He has two older brothers Henri age 13 and Raymond age 11, whom Stuart has watched playing sports for years.  Like any other little boy, Stuart wanted to play sports, just like his older brothers, but there just was not a team that was special enough for him.

Stuart first became involved with Special Olympics Washington programming at a Young Athletes event.  Young Athletes is an innovative sports play program which seeks to strengthen self-esteem and physical development through early intervention for children ages 2 through 7.  At Young Athletes he participated in obstacle courses, throwing events and tested his jumping skills.  It was through this program that Stuart won his first Special Olympics medal.  

Now that he is 9 years old, Stuart is playing Special Olympics soccer and is looking forward to competing in Special Olympics bowling this fall.  Stuart has gained confidence and courage in his soccer games.  Like other kids, the sports he participates in at Special Olympics teaches him about teamwork, rules, fair play and how to handle winning and losing. 

He particularly likes that his brothers are watching him now!

There are over 7,500 athletes, just like Stuart, that benefit from funds raised by Special Olympics Washington.  Your support allows children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to be accepted, respected and empowered!

Consider your participation in the 2011 Northwest Ride of Dreams to benefit athletes just like Stuart!