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| Look at this haul! I’m not the only one racking up ribbons and medals! |
My little sister is a total badass.
This is Rebekah, who is my little sister, and those are her ribbons and medals from this season’s Special Olympics meets. Rebekah was born with Trisomy 21 Down Syndrome and a resulting atrioventricular septal defect. That defect would have claimed her life, but for an inspired performance by a surgical team from Childrens Hospital when she was just 4 months old. She was also born with the most winning personality you’ll ever come across.
Rebekah has Down Syndrome, but that is the last thing you’ll remember about her. She is an athlete, a 3-year varsity member of her high school basketball team, and a Gold Medalist in the 100m dash at this year’s Special Olympics State Summer Games. She is a pianist, loves to sing, and loves her family. She is something of a community celebrity, being elected as Prom Princess (junior court) for her school this year. She even has her own Facebook page!
Rebekah is among the most amazing human beings I’ve ever met, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some of the world’s most amazing human beings. From sports legends to war heroes, few can hold a candle to Rebekah’s ability to change every single life she touches. A huge part of who I am today as a human being comes from having had her in my life growing up. She’s taught me how to better love my friends, how to forgive more quickly, and how to exude the sort of compassion and happiness that we all should show each other.
I’ve seen her warm the coldest personalities and put smiles on the saddest faces. She is the center of joy in any room, and you cannot meet her without feeling better than you did when you walked in.
Great job this year, Rebekah! I can’t wait to cheer you on through your Senior year starting this fall, and through the rest of your incredible, improbable, charmed and blessed life.