Carly Patterson Supports Special Olympics
As you know during the month of October I’m supporting the Special Olympics by being a part of Team Champions for the contest being hosted by the Metroplex Cadillac Dealers where six charities compete to win a $150,000 advertising fund. Carly Patterson is our celebrity spokesperson for our team and she was extremely kind during the press event and agreed to answer some interview questions for me to share with my readers.
At what age did you decide gymnastics was important to you?
I started gymnastics at the age of 6 1/2 years old. I fell in love from the very beginning and loved gymnastics until I had to retire. It was always important because it was a true love/passion and something I chose to do.
What made you decide to support the Special Olympics?
I have been very involved at times with the Special Olympics locally and nationwide as well as many other charities. I was asked to do a Special Olympic event some years ago locally and it was so rewarding. It made me realize that goals and achievements are so important to everyone, including those with disabilities.
What does it mean to you to give back to your community with charity involvement?
It means so much for me to help with charities, because I feel like I have been so blessed in my life in many ways. I want to be able to give back to those in need. It gives me a sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Do you feel you reached your own personal dream in the olympics?
I definitely reached my highest dream and goal in the Olympics. I feel very fortunate that I achieved the gold in the AA in gymnastics. My journey to that success was also amazing, because it made me who I am today. It wasn’t just the gold medal, but the ups and downs along the way.
Receiving your champion title… did it make all the hard work worth it?
Yes, all the hard work to achieve the ultimate success I dreamed of was worth it. I worked hard, but I truly loved the sport and what I was doing, so it made it fun too.
What’s one piece of advice you would share with any child, one with diffabilities or regular abilities about reaching their goals?
The most important advice I would give to anyone along the road to reaching a goal is to work hard, but have fun and enjoy what you are doing. Surround yourself with good mentors and friends. Listen to your coaches, teachers and parents because they have your best interests in mind.
I hope you take the time out today to visit the Metroplex Cadillac Dealers Facebook page and vote for Team Champions in support of the Special Olympics. To vote literally it’s only a simple click and the reward is such an amazing thing for such a deserving charity!
Full Disclosure: MommaDJane.com is a supporter of the Special Olympics of Texas by choice. Compensation from Metroplex Cadillac Dealers is provided for promotion of their contest.
