Published by Senator Mobina Jaffer on 04 October 2010
A lot of unusual things have been happening on the Hill!
But among so many others, I want to share one really exceptional happening with all of you!
Last week, I had the honour of welcoming to my Ottawa office a six-year-old boy named Oliver Sutherland, who for the past three years has been participating in the Special Olympics.
Accompanied by his father, James Sutherland, Oliver was sparkling with excitement as he told me about his Olympic involvement. Warm-hearted, energetic, but above all bursting with eagerness to share his experiences, Oliver made vivid for us what it is like to live in his world.
Oliver, who was born with Down Syndrome, has learned that if we want to do better we can, even if some people don’t hold out much hope for us. Three years ago, Oliver decided to prove to the people around him that he had the ability, the strength and above all the will to succeed, and this has made his parents very proud of him.
Thanks to the Special Olympics Program, Oliver has become strong enough to play some regular sports with his friends. Increased self-confidence, being with his chums and getting involved in physical activity were his goals.
Why not try Oliver’s approach to life? Tell yourself that despite difficulties, despite the obstacles that life puts in our path, you can -- we can -- succeed; all it takes is a little help from our friends, desire and above all perseverance.
Please reach out to the people involved in the Special Olympics and get to know them! Their success will become your success and -- of course -- our success!
