Appreciating the Gift
by Tom Lambke*
My wife, Karen, and I were excited about the birth of our first child, Bryan, on
3 December 1981. But the moment he was born, I noticed something didn't seem quite right; our son looked different than I had expected. When the doctor told us Bryan had Down syndrome, I knew our lives were about to change forever.
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The Lambkes at Closing Ceremonies for the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games. From left: Shauna, Karen, Tom and Bryan. [Photo courtesy of the Lambke family] |
What limited knowledge I had of that particular disability did nothing to help me know how I was supposed to feel. I remember experiencing a kaleidoscope of different emotions — at first shock, then disbelief, followed by denial, and when I realized that nothing was going to change the outcome, a feeling of relief. I was relieved that God had chosen the two of us to raise this special child, rather than someone who wouldn't appreciate the gift. I had no doubt whatsoever that Karen would accept our son unconditionally. I also had no doubt that there would be a lot of work ahead of us, but I was unhesitatingly confident that we were capable of handling the challenge.
When Bryan was 8 years old, he joined Special Olympics, and so did Karen and I, and our daughter Shauna, as volunteers and coaches. The highlight of our lives was when Bryan and I were selected to compete in Unified Sports® bowling at the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Ireland. Special Olympics has certainly made an impact on our whole family.
Special Olympics cannot help but alter even the most jaded person's way of thinking when it comes to people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics athletes are the most down to earth, honest people I know. They show their emotions naturally and do not need to put on an act for anyone. Like I tell others who have never witnessed an event, come out and watch. You will want to play with us; it is that addicting. It is actually refreshing to watch the excitement on athletes' faces and the true sportsmanship that is portrayed by these men and women. All they really need is the chance to show what they are capable of.
*Editors Note: Tom Lambke is the author of the book entitled Spirit, Courage and Resolve: A Special Olympics Athlete's Road to Gold, and coaches bowling for Special Olympics Arizona (USA). |
