From Backyard Beginnings to a Lifetime of Impact

Hello, my name is Kathy Breckenridge.  My brother, Tim Gowen, is one of the original Special Olympic athletes getting his first Gold in Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s backyard pool in 1967. Our family has always been so proud of Tim and excited about his involvement in Special Olympics.

We are from a large family, and we grew up with love and support for each other. When the time came for me to be the one to care for Tim it was full steam ahead and Tim has been playing sports, taking classes and getting involved like never before. For Tim to succeed, there must be a strong support system behind him. Our siblings live in other states and support him with phone calls, cheering him on, and congratulating him when he competes or gives speeches. Tim’s unified Partner is his nephew, Terry.  All our athletes need someone to believe in them and to be willing to help them along the way. Some need it more than others and there are those who have no one; that is when those who can, need to reach out and lend a helping hand. I often have a car loaded with athletes going somewhere. Special Olympics is a family that includes, not only the athletes and staff, but the police, the volunteers, the corporations and people who support financially, even the people who are brought to tears and gain strength when they see our athletes fulfilling their dreams and reaching for the goals! Tim and I both thrive on being with our Special Olympic Family!

I would like to give a shout out to all the families who go the extra mile to support their athletes and get them to practices, competitions, and Torch Runs – just to name a few of the many activities provided by Special Olympics. It takes a special kind of person to be parents and caregivers of these amazing men and women! They deserve the best!

My family’s lives have always been affected by having two brother’s who are intellectually disabled, something we wouldn’t have changed for the world, but as Tim’s caregiver, my life has changed dramatically. I’m dedicated to my brother and helping him reach for his dreams. We run from one end of Maryland to the other to support our athletes, competing, giving speeches, and supporting fundraisers. It is not always easy, but it is incredibly rewarding and inspiring.

Our family here at Special Olympics is an amazing family and a precious gift to every one of us! Tim and I, along with our family, are forever grateful and thankful for the blessing.