Venezuela: Sports for Daughters and Sons, Respite for Parents
Edited by: Ángela Coret/ AGENCIA DE PRENSA DIGITAL DISNNET Number 600
Away from their families, during four days of competition more than 800 athletes participated in the National Special Olympics of Venezuela in the city of Valencia. It was an unforgettable experience for them. They had the opportunity to prove their personal best as athletes, but also a chance to establish strong friendships with other persons with disabilities and practice their independent living skills.
Now, what were their parents doing during this time?
Most of them were very happy that their daughters and sons were able to compete hard and manifest other personal skills. And others were thankful for the opportunity of having a "break".
What is this?
At a meeting with mothers of athletes with disabilities, I could watch them do some training and getting ready to participate in the next event. I was able to understand their feelings of relief from the hard work they had to perform at supporting their daughters and sons with the non-sport preparations and training. You know the important little things like: close the door when using the bathroom, check your things before leave, brush your teeth, goods manners during meals...
One mother who had come to watch her daughter train, told the group: "We are going to have some rest at home." By her tone, we understood that she was tired. Some people were annoyed, but the reality is that children with disabilities do demand more attention and, in some instances, endless periods of physical work.
I understood her, children with disabilities sometime are too demanding and it can take years before they are able to perform rather simple tasks on their own. I went through that stage in my own family. (I invite the reading of my book: Some days for resting: the needs of mothers).
Much has been written about the needs of resting periods for parents of persons with disabilities. When activities and programs are well organized, and a warm and friendly environment, they will also relieve tensions and worried parents. That is a way of giving parents a break.
When you are a parent, there are very few opportunities for a break.
So among the many benefits from participating in these Special Olympic Games, for athletes and their parents, I would add the incidental break.
All of us were able to value our daughters and son better. Some felt relieved and that is also good.
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