Champion for a Day
It is a yearly event at River Ridge High School. A place where special needs children of Cherokee County and their buddies show up to compete. It’s the Special Olympics. If you need a reminder that same teenagers who are seemingly so self indulgent are capable of humility, compassion and service, this is a great place to be. I am blown away every year by the kids who come out and join together to make this event such a success. I think they get it - like most acts of service, the giver is the one who ends up receiving the most, and they walk away with a renewed sense of appreciation and gratitude.
From the very first girl who was lowered from the school bus in her wheelchair - so excited she could hardly contain herself - to the final moment when everyone took to the football field to do the Cha Cha Slide, the day was magical. After of 4 years of attending this event, it never grows old. It certainly is a SPECIAL day with some of the most beautiful people in the world. I leave feeling lucky to be in their presence and share their joy and determination if only for just one day.
