the story of my life part 3

Behind the Medals: What It Really Took to Compete in 2010

Between 2008 and 2010, Josephine found a new home in her local Special Olympics club. For a while, it brought structure and friendship. But as the 2010 Games approached, something shifted.

Josephine and others were told by their club’s sports manager, Pam, that they would need to pay all outstanding fees before they could attend the National Games.

She didn’t want to be left behind. She didn’t want to let anyone down. So, she quietly took out a personal loan to cover her place. She didn’t tell her family. She didn’t complain.

By the time the Games ended, she was overwhelmed—financially and emotionally. That’s when I stepped in and repaid the loan. Because no athlete should ever feel forced to go into debt just to be part of something meant to uplift them.

This is just one of many stories that rarely get told. Behind the smiles and opening ceremonies, there’s another side. It deserves to be heard.

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