Living A Rewarding Life
Facing challenges is what makes Special Olympics Kenya athlete and 2007 World Summer Games coach Thomas Gathu strong
On a Saturday morning in July 2006, it was so chilly on the grounds of The University of Nairobi that, despite the vigorous training of Special Olympic athletes from the Nairobi Province, goose bumps were clearly evident on their skin.
In the midst of all their activities, one gentleman distinctly stood out. His smile warmed the air, and the ease with which he related to athletes and coaches was outstanding. He was amazingly articulate. Tom, as his buddies call him, won nine medals at Special Olympics World Games in 1987 and 1995.
Born on 1 March 1963, Tom is the fifth of eight children in his family. He says his family members are his special gifts from God. Sadly, Tom's dad is deceased and he greatly misses him. “My papa always told me that to do well, you have to work hard because challenges will always be there.”
At Arya nursery/primary school where he started his schooling, life was a nightmare. He was punished and insulted because he was slow in writing, and his performance was way below average. Ironically, it was the same critical headmistress who eventually recommended to his parents that they send him to Jacaranda Special School.
His mom, Rosa, is his greatest love. He is full of praise for her because she always motivated him and advised him not to be afraid. Tom's close ties with his siblings, among them, the renowned radio personality, Jimmi Gathu, is evident from the look of pride in his eyes.
Tom's message to parents is, “Do not hide your special children. They are part of us, and denying them play, exposure and association is violating their basic human rights.” He strongly feels that Kenya's government should acknowledge that Kenyans who have intellectual disabilities are legitimate citizens of the nation; therefore, equal opportunities must be created for them. Parents or guardians who lock up their special children in kennels or tie them up must face stiffer penalties.
Tom is forever grateful to his soccer coach, Willis Odhiambo, who encouraged him to undertake greater challenges, such as, attending track and field coaching courses.
Besides winning nine Special Olympics medals, Tom has worked as a physical education teacher at Akon Special School and represented people with intellectual disabilities at a conference in Paris where he addressed thousands of people.
Tom has high hopes for the future. He is looking for a teaching job where he can nurture talent and enhance awareness. He is currently coaching Special Olympics Nairobi athletes in preparation for the 2007 Special Olympics World Games to be held in China in October.
His dream is to see Special Olympics Kenya, together with the Kenya government, establish a sports museum in honor of all the athletes who have brought glory and fame to their country.
“There are times when we become disheartened or discouraged and life may feel like an uphill climb. Those are the times to remember that a rewarding life is filled with challenge; the effort creates fires that temper us and strengthen our spirit,” said Tom. “So do not feel pity for me … Give me a chance!”
