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Dottie’s Highlights from the Games

Life on the Track

Dottie Lessard-O’Connor

It was a cloudy morning on July 30 th with a forecast of rain and wind. A rainbow of team uniforms dotted the Bierman Track and Field Stadium and all wore smiles or faces of determination. A thankfulness for life echoed in the cool air, and HOPE and JOY resonated in every step along the grass and cement. The bleachers were already crowded with family, friends and fans. It was a beautiful sight, and I was so happy to once again feel my spikes on the track and breath air filled with hopes and dreams.

My fellow athletes were stretching, practicing and wishing their teammates good luck. Although we were from different teams throughout the U.S., we were all teammates in LIFE and SECOND CHANCES. Even the heavy clouds couldn’t stop our sunshine from coming through. It was a day that so many dreamed of, so many prayed for.

The Games have evolved, the athletes have become stronger and the competition has become intense. We are organ recipients, but clearly we are also serious athletes who have dedicated time and effort to make the most of “our gift.”

The first event began at 8:00 am, the last somewhere after 6:00 pm. In between there were smiles, laughter, tears, hugs, sweat and even blood. From the incredible flight of a long jumper to the incredible will of the last-place race walker, everyone was a winner. Some had medals draped around their neck, some didn’t. But at the end of the day we all walked out of the stadium winners, proud and grateful, with a new sense of appreciation for the “Gift of Life.” It was not only another day on the track; it was another day to be thankful for.