My late grandparents, Jim and Barb Lila, were avid supporters of the Special Olympics since the very beginning. Their eldest son and my uncle, Danny Lila, experienced the inclusion, acceptance and joy that this organization brings to those with Down syndrome. Although I never had the chance to meet him, I heard countless stories about how full his 18 short years of life were. This is partly due to the numerous opportunities Special Olympics provided to connect with others through sports and physical activity.
Danny was born in 1964 with Down syndrome and a hole in his heart. My grandparents were advised by doctors to place him in an institution, but they were determined to raise and love their baby. They sought other expert opinions on raising a child with disabilities and they soon found out that when my mom came along 13 months later, Danny mimicked all her baby milestones. My grandparents would not have it any other way- he would be treated like any other kid. He joined the South Shore YARC gym and social club for children with physical and mental disabilities and the highlight every year was Special Olympics. The whole family volunteered and shared their talents/ love of sports and helped with training, fundraising and cheering on every accomplishment. He especially loved bowling, swimming, baseball and track. The whole production of uniforms, medals and trophies provided by the Special Olympics enriched the experience for many athletes like Danny.
It has always been a dream of mine to run the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and I can think of no better organization to run with than Team Special Olympics Chicago. Our family is forever appreciative of this organization, so this race will be in honor of my late grandparents and entire Lila family. Additionally, I am running for the thousands of Chicagoans with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so that they have the same chances to participate in the sports they love. I hope that you consider supporting my efforts, and am so grateful for your devoted support to our life-changing mission!
If you wish to make a donation via check, please send to the address below and they will credit the donation to my fundraising page. Please make sure to include my name (or the person you would like to support) in the memo section.
Please make all checks payable to Special Children's Charities.
Mail to:
Special Children's Charities
2 E. 8th St., Suite 2M
Chicago, IL 60605
Again, thank you for supporting the thousands of participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago!