Special Olympics success stories just wouldn’t be complete without testimonials from parents whose children benefit from our programs. Janet Brandt is a current GEICO employee, Special Olympics Virginia parent, volunteer and at one point in her career, she also worked for Special Olympics Inc. in Washington, D.C.  At that stage in her life, she had no idea that her on-the-job-training would prepare her for the birth of her daughter, Lindsey, who has been a very active athlete in our state program since 2000.

When asked to share her feelings about Special Olympics, Janet emphasized the social benefits of the program. “We parents often refer to it as Social Olympics since participating has had the unexpected result of creating a social and support network that we couldn’t live without.”

Janet also shared that Lindsey took some time to embrace becoming a part of the Special Olympics family.  So much so that Janet found herself chasing her then 8-year old daughter outside at a winter time swimming competition.  While she may have been freezing and a little frustrated at the time, she can look back at the image of the two of them outside in the snow wearing only their bathing suits and conclude that it was good training for their now regular participation in the Polar Plunge® Winter Festival!

In addition to being an avid swimmer and plunger, Lindsey also participates in some “dry land” sports including soccer, equestrian, basketball and track & field.   Her mom, Janet, is particularly proud of Lindsey’s recent decision to serve as a junior mentor to athletes aged 2 to 7 who participate in her local area’s Young Athletes™ program.  For Lindsey, serving others in her community is just as sweet as achieving personal victories on the playing field.  Of course, that doesn’t keep mother Janet from displaying Lindsey’s hard won ribbons and medals in a place of honor in their family home.  To Janet and countless other participants in Special Olympics, the shiny ribbons and glittering medals symbolize the priceless “people, friends and comrades in sport who understand our lives and our challenges.  No explanations required.”

Thanks, Janet.  We couldn’t agree more.