
09/26/2024
Today is Sam’s 35th birthday- omg- how is that possible.
He is the “why” behind the “why” I fiercely support the Special Olympics.
https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/EV60MIN/MaryBethMcGillicuddy
I laughed out loud this morning when I recalled one of our memories together.
He was on the cross country team in Brookline at Pierce (Middle School age) and although he ran all the time with his dad- the first cross county meet with throngs of kids gave him a bit of pause/panic. I was on the side lines there to cheer him on. I had been his One to One aide the previous three years. I think I was his tutor/life skills buddy at this point. When the starting buzzer went off everyone ran and he didn’t move. (A bit overwhelmed by the size of it all) so I did what any race support person would do….I started running the course. 😂(Mind you I was in overalls and very loose doc martin boots.) He started laughing at me (because I looked completely ridiculous- I’m not a runner under the most ideal conditions.) He started running. We ran together for a bit and then he took off!
I recall running out of my doc Martin, having to stop and put it back on, I recall the burning sensation in my lungs because if I haven’t mentioned, I’m not a runner, I recall having shin splints for days but nothing NOTHING! could out match the unbelievable smile and glow Sam had on his face at the finish line. He felt so good and proud for completing the race. He talked about it for weeks. He still pokes fun at me about the time I ran right out of my shoe. 💙
It is in these memories that I share my complete commitment to the Special Olympics. To know your donations fund so many feel good moments for athletes, lights me on fire to fundraise until my lungs burn. 💕 I’m so grateful for your support. (Photo circa 2003-
Who wants to pose and smile when you can make goofy faces)
Happy Birthday Sam! 💙