Creating Connections, Mike Meadows

I was born in Waynesboro, Virginia to Gene and Mary Meadows, and I have four brothers: David, Jeff, Jim, and Randy. 

When I started Kindergarten, the school told my family that I was a slow learner and would need to attend special education classes. I went through 9th grade at Kate Collins, which was a Junior High School at the time. I also spent a few months at Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center, going to school during the week and coming home on weekends. 

I worked at the Waynesboro Police Academy for ten years, and also worked at Summit Square.

Over the years, I have cheered for Virginia Tech football, Waynesboro High School’s football and basketball home games, and the Waynesboro Generals during the summer. I have also enjoyed being part of the Waynesboro Rotary Club, The Wayne Theater, Westminster Church, and the Special Olympics.

In 1968, Eunice Kennedy Shriver started the Special Olympics. I began participating in the Special Olympics as a teenager and have enjoyed skiing, swimming, softball, volleyball, basketball (both half court and full court), bowling, and pickleball. I also competed in two international games, now known as the World Games. In 1999, the World Games were held in Raleigh, North Carolina, and my mom came to watch, which meant a lot to me

I have a lot of fun at the Special Olympics, playing sports and meeting new athletes and coaches. At every practice, state meet, and world games, we say the Special Olympics Oath: "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

We all want to win, but we cannot win all the time, and that's okay. Playing the game and being with friends is what really matters.

Read More about Mike, a Special Olympics Athlete for over 50 years: