AbilityPath is a part of an exclusive delegation at the Summer 2011 Special Olympics World Games in Athens discussing global issues impacting people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Today's discussion centered on the importance of women in the Special Olympics Movement and how we can continue to increase participation of women globally. The panel, which was moderated by Olympic Swimming Gold Medalist Donna de Varona, included distinguished women from around the globe including Nadia Comaneci, Olympic Gymnastics Gold Medalist who changed the landscape of female athletes, taking a courageous stand in her native Romania. Their stories of strength, determination and discipline illustrated the life changing power sports can have on all, particularly women with disabilities.

After the panel, mini breakout sessions took place to discuss how we expand programs for women and girls around the world. Currently, only 37% of the athletes participating in the Special Olympics Games are young women. Even more striking, is the fact 93% of women with disabilities do not participate in sports. Determined to be a catalyst of change, AbilityPath joined members of the Special Olympics International community to discuss strategies to target recruitment efforts for young women globally.

The morning's highlight was Ms. Loretta Claiborne, Special Olympics Athlete and International Board Member, who provided us all with inspiration that the challenges we face can be overcome. Loretta competed in more than 26 marathons, twice finishing with the top 100 runners in the Boston Marathon and won multiple gold medals in the Special Olympics World Games.

Off the field her accomplishments are just as great, owning a home that is completely paid off and traveling throughout Africa joining former President Nelson Mandela to bring awareness of the benefits of Special Olympics. She noted that her secret to her youthful looks and energy is that, "sports keeps you young!" Her message to girls everywhere is to, "go out and succeed and be your best!" Her advice to AbilityPath parents, "keep fighting to have your children in sports!" We couldn't have said it better ourselves, Loretta.

Stay tuned for a summary of tomorrow's topic "Youth Empowerment, Are You Ready" which I will be participating in as a facilitator alongside keynote speaker Apolo Ohno, Olympic Speed Skating Gold Medalist!