Special Needs? He May Not Agree

As we are in the middle of the 2012 Summer Olympics, I thought it very appropriate that I write about a South African track and field athlete, Oscar Pistorius.  He will be running in the 400 meter race.  Nothing special, right?  Well, what I haven't told you is that when Oscar was born, he was born without his fibulas.  His parents had to make a very difficult choice, and they decided to have his lower legs amputated.  Oscar uses 'blades', some call 'cheetah' legs while others may call 'cheater' legs.  It is a very insightful read and makes me begin to think that, hmmm, Oscar doesn't see his lot in life as unlucky but rather as a blessed.

I post this article for a few reasons; 1) we need to recognize the definition of 'athlete' needs to be expanded within our framework; 2) we need to step out of our comfort zone and make contact with others who may be different than us; 3) we need to recognize there is a wealth of opportunity for us to provide health care to our expanded definition of 'athlete'; and 4) to recognize and understand that others can help us to learn and appreciate even the smallest things in life.  After all, isn't that what life is about - enjoying the journey and not believing life to be a destination.

I hope you enjoy the read and below is a video of Oscar in action!

Not trying to promote Nike on this one, but pretty inspirational commercial below: