Liz Litvak knows her way around a doctor’s office. As someone living with a disability and a genetic disorder, she’s met with countless specialists over the years. But even with all that experience, speaking up during appointments hasn’t always come easy.
That’s why she joined a new health simulation session hosted by Special Olympics Illinois and the University of Illinois Chicago’s Simulation and Integrative Learning Institute (SAIL).
The goal? To help athletes build confidence in communicating with healthcare professionals, and to strengthen their ability to advocate for their own care.
That opportunity came to life in July, when a small group of athletes gathered to learn skills to improve communication and self-advocacy during doctor visits.
“Because I go to a lot of appointments for my disability and genetic disorder, I see many specialists,” shared Region B athlete Liz Litvak. “That’s why I wanted to participate in this project.”
Practicing for Real-Life Care
A health simulation is a “pretend” interaction between patients and healthcare professionals, designed to mirror real-life experiences. In this case, athletes met with trained actors portraying doctors.
The goal is to practice navigating common medical scenarios in a safe, supportive environment.
Inside the Simulated Appointments
Each athlete participated in two simulated doctor’s appointments.
In the first scenario athletes prepared for a first visit with a new doctor to discuss managing a chronic condition. This scenario tasked the athlete to discuss current medications, medical history, symptoms, and allowed time to ask healthcare provider questions.
Then, in the second scenario athletes were asked to respond to a treatment plan that could impact their ability to compete in sports. Here, they practiced expressing concerns, asked about various treatment options, and negotiated treatment alternatives.
Turning Practice into Confidence
After each scenario, athletes debriefed with staff and peers to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Discussions centered around how to self-advocate and to learn how to communicate respectfully and confidently.
“One of the doctors asked me questions during our session, and it really stood out,” Litvak shared. “It reminded me how important it is to be honest with your doctor.”
Athletes thrive when given the chance to grow, and these simulations are showing us new ways to support them on their health journeys.
“This experience gave me more confidence to speak up,” Litvak said. “I know I’ve gotten better at advocating for myself during my doctor’s appointments, and I want to help teach others to do the same.”
Programs like this show what’s possible when athletes are supported not just on the field, but in every part of life. Whether in sports, health, or leadership, their success lifts us all.