Mobility Friends Together

The Paralympic Games ended yesterday, the 18th of September, and a very powerful closing ceremony marked the ending of an event that was very important. The ceremony symbolized both the accomplishments of the athletes, but also hopes for the future. Athletes from China brought home the most medals. Great Britain was second place in the medal counts, with the United States close at their heels.

China won over 200 medals this year. Their athletes received 89 Gold Medals, 70 Silver Medals, and 52 Bronze Medals. Great Britain brought home 102 Medals this year, among them 42 Gold Medals.

The United States was a very close third and received 99 Medals. The U.S. Team brought 42 Gold Medals, 35 Silver Medals, and 28 Bronze Medals back with them. The United States Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Rugby Team, and Goalball team made an impressive stand and won the Gold. The U.S. Team was also very successful in the swimming events, athletic events, and cycling.

Athletes from around 70 different countries participated in this years games and they all deserve our respect. The medals are nice and represent a very big accomplishment, but the Paralympics are about much more than just winning the Gold. All of the athletes who participated in the games showed a strong sense of character and perseverance.

The National Veterans Wheelchair Games concluded last week. More than 500 athletes participated in the event this year, which was held in Omaha Nebraska. This marks the end of the 28^th event.

These great athletes joined together to compete and while there was a strong sense of competition, there was also a strong sense of brotherhood amongst the many athletes. Among the many different events that were held this year were wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair softball, quad rugby, power soccer, and many other fun events.

Many of the people competing had never competed at a wheelchair sporting event before and the games go a long way towards helping their physical health as well as their mental health.

One veteran, who was wounded while fighting in Afghanistan, found that he was able to enjoy many of the same things he enjoyed before he was wounded. The veteran, Tyler Wilson, was amazed at how close everyone who competes is. Those who have been to the games before are quick to help the new comers and create an excellent environment.

Tyler, who competed in bowling, air guns, archery, trapshooting, and nine-ball events, left the competition with one gold medal, a silver metal, and two bronze medals. He is very excited about next years games and sees this as a very positive type of rehabilitation.

There were no losers at this years Games and all of the athletes that competed should be commended for their bravery both on the field and off.