Océane Rajotte

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

5 years.

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

I was introduced to Special Olympics Quebec thanks to another skater, Stéphanie Lachance! Being involved has given me confidence and helped me succeed.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

Special Olympics has helped me overcome a lot of stress. It’s helped me find the strength to never give up, even though I sometimes feel like quitting!

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favourite memory was winning a medal at Nationals in Calgary and meeting new friends at the Special Olympics Quebec Provincial Games!

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Perserverance.

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

It's given me a lot of confidence and I'm really excited about going to Italy.

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

I want to let people know that just because you're different doesn't mean you can't make it, and that if you have Autism, there's a place for you.

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

Being a part of Special Olympics makes you unique and gives you confidence.