If you haven't read, day one was relived here.
The boy got up early the next day and swam in the really big pool, again. This time it was the competition.
His mother and grandmother can only take so much of him sitting alone by the really big pool without dad-coach. The boy...he can take it.
A brighten-your-day photo of the stud in his Speedo. Yes, one day there will be payback for that remark.
Splash! Wil dives in for his 25m swim.
Wil stood on the metal podium after the 25m, jubilant in receiving a fourth place ribbon having swam his best 25m time ever.
He didn't know there had been a mix-up and that he was actually the bronze medalist. I knew, and my heart sank a bit knowing he would receive his medal off podium.
Still, I was proud that he upheld the Special Olympics motto:
“Let me win. But if I can not win let me be brave in the attempt.”
Later Wil was awarded the bronze medal for his division of the 25m freestyle.
Maybe Wil will forgive me for being so excited and distracted that weekend that every image exposure and focus was off. An overly excited Special Olympic athlete's mom should never be the designated photographer.
One and one-half hours later, Wil readied for his 50m freestyle event.
He swam so hard. His best time ever in a 50m swim.
Wil won a second bronze medal. This time it was excitedly received on the podium.
I loved the high five moment.
The responsibilities of a champion are many...including television interviews.
I have not yet found the interview posted on the television news site or Special Olympics Georgia.
The victory jump and yell after holding his composure for what must have seemed like fo-evah during the medal presentation and interview.
Finally, Wil stood still for the double bronze medalist shot. Loving the bling.
Have I mentioned how proud I am of my son?
Or that I love him more than should be humanly possible?
I am
and
I do.
Special Olympics has touched our family in ways which words cannot convey.
Experience it for yourself.
Change attitudes. Change the world.
Thanks for reading.
