Let me win.  But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. - Special Olympic Athlete Oath

What do you do when you are told your child is not allowed to participate?

For years the Special Olympics of New York Genesee Region has included an adapted event called the Assisted Wheelchair Race. 

This years Regional Special Olympics are hosted by Bloomfield, NY. 

Bloomfield's Athletic Director was directed by Special Olympics NY Regional Director Betsy Mihm to notify families the Assisted Wheelchair Race event would not be held at the Bloomfield, NY Special Olympic games.

When pressed for justification for the removal of this event Director Mihm stated it was a "fabricated sports experience".

This race enables children like our Son Taylor who are non-mobile to participate in a race and be cheered on.  There is no gold medal or advancement to national competitions, it's an opportunity for children who battle through adversity every day to experience a race and be cheered by hundreds of family, friends, and caregivers. It is also represents the intention of the Special Olympic games of true inclusion.

Please sign this petition for the Assisted Wheelchair Race be made a permanent event for the Special Olympics New York Genesee Region.