Washington, D.C. – Sarah Patterson is in Washington, D.C., this week to share her story as a Special Olympics athlete. She’s there as part of “Capitol Hill Day,” where athletes and families from around the country meet with elected officials to talk about the success of the 2004 Sport Empowerment Act.
During her visit, Patterson met with Congressman Walt Minnick, who represents Idaho’s First District. Minnick offered Patterson a rare treat: His extra seat in the gallery during a special joint session of Congress to hear an address from British Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
“She’s thrilled to be here today,” said Steve Patterson, Sarah’s father. “She loves being up here in front of a crowd and she’s a great advocate for the Games.”
Laurie LaFollette is the CEO of the Special Olympics in Idaho. She said Patterson is was excited to attend the special address.
“Sarah is absolutely obsessed with celebrities - she loves American idol,” LaFollette said. “She’s very excited about today because she’s surrounded by famous people and she gets the chance to meet Representative Minnick.”
Patterson is a 23-year-old Boise resident plays floor hockey, basketball and softball in the Special Olympics. She also attends classes at Boise State University and works in town at a local coffee shop. She competed in last month’s Special Olympics World Winter Games, and also served as one of 12 “Global Messengers,” volunteering her time to speak to community leaders, students and citizens about the Games.
“She’s gone through training to learn how to be a representative of the Special Olympics for Idaho and has done a great job,” LaFollette said. “She has been a fantastic global messenger.
Patterson is returning to Idaho this week, where the Idaho State Special Olympics is happening in McCall. LaFollette said there are 2,500 Special Olympics athletes in Idaho alone.
Special Olympics athlete from Idaho attends Congressional address
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