Brooke Thomas

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

15 years.

How did you first get involved with Special Olympics and how has it changed your life?

I first got involved with Special Olympics when I was 8 years old. It has changed my life because I am able to achieve my goals and make friends within Special Olympics.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

One barrier that I have overcome is thinking that I wouldn’t be able to achieve my goals. I trained very hard to be where I am. I learned that I can do anything.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favourite memory is when I met Olympian Scott Moir at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Thunder Bay in 2020.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Special Olympics has taught me to try to be more patient with myself when I don't succeed at something I am trying to accomplish.

What does being part of Special Olympics Team Canada mean to you and what is your goal for Turin?

Being a part of Special Olympics Team Canada means everything because when you join Special Olympics, this is the ultimate goal – to go to Worlds. And now I can officially say that I achieved it. My goal for Turin is to do my best and have fun!!

What do you want people to know about athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

I want people to know that we can do the same things that they can, and we want to be treated like everybody else.

What would you say to someone thinking of getting involved in Special Olympics?

Do it!! It’s an amazing organization that has helped me and so many athletes come together and show our love for sport!!