Megan Bray, with Special Olympics staff Zoe Braithwaite, left, Tristan Mathieson and CEO Carolyn Young, right
gatherings and prevented Jeremy from engaging with his friends and community. “Over lockdown all activities stopped, and when you can’t use Zoom or message people like the rest of us, your world becomes quite small.” “He didn’t understand why you can’t approach people or go to ten-pin bowling” Megan says. The lockdown was tough for Jeremy and when Wellington moved to alert level 1, he was happy to return to training. Megan explains that Special Olympics was aware of the increased risk of New Zealanders with intellectual disabilities becoming socially isolated and aimed to resume regular activities quickly under new health protocols. “After lockdown Special Olympics got quite creative doing social distancing and hygiene with people who don’t necessarily understand the concepts and are more at risk from health issues.” “It made a huge difference to Jeremy when he could resume training, I’m very grateful that Special Olympics worked to keep activities going during this time.” Megan decided she was going to participate in the Round the Bays in Wellington, and fundraise for Special Olympics New Zealand, a charity partner of the event. Megan was elated at the positive feedback. “I’m absolutely thrilled at the response I’ve had to my fundraising page, I can’t believe it.” she says. Megan’s long surpassed her original goal of $500 and received over $1500 to sponsor her walk in support of Jeremy and Special Olympics.
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Jeremy at training
