For Caleb Scott, Special Olympics Illinois isn’t just about competing-it’s about growing as an athlete and taking care of his overall health. With over 22 years of involvement, Caleb has thrived in his sport, but his journey doesn’t stop at the finish line. At the 2024 Summer Games, Caleb not only claimed a gold medal in the 200-meter run but also took advantage of the health programming, which has had a meaningful impact on his life.
Through these programs, Caleb learned new ways to stay fit, protect himself from the sun, and even gained new prescription glasses to improve his vision. Here’s a throwback to our conversation with Caleb about his Summer Games experience.
Q: Tell us about your 2024 Summer Games experience.
A: I’ve been to Summer Games before. I’ve been in Special Olympics Illinois for 22 years and am still loving it! I competed this year in the 200-meter run and won gold!
Q: What did you learn at the Summer Games hydration station (Healthy Habits)?
A: I learned to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. I received a bracelet that let me know when I have had enough sun, lip balm, and sunscreen.
Q: What surprised you the most about Healthy Athletes at CEFCU (Redbird) Arena?
A: How many different things they had in there to do.
Q: Tell us about your experience with Opening Eyes.
A: I liked the different stations you had to go through to see how well I could see. They ordered me new glasses at Opening Eyes.
Q: What did you think of your experience with Healthy Hearing?
A: I was happy when they checked my hearing and found out that I had fluid behind my ear drum. All the volunteers were very helpful and very nice.
Q: What did you think of your experience with Special Smiles?
A: I was doing a good job brushing my teeth. We came up on Friday so that we could do Healthy Athletes.
Q: Did you get to see the therapy dogs?
A: I really liked seeing the service dogs and petting them. The dogs were very nice.
Q: Did you learn any new exercises at FunFitness?
A: All the different stations that showed me different exercises I could do at home to make my muscles stronger. I learned a lot of new exercises to help me at home.
Health programming at Special Olympics Illinois has not only provided Caleb with valuable health screenings and advice, but it has also empowered him to take charge of his well-being.
Interested in learning more about how Special Olympics Illinois supports athletes through health initiatives? Visit our website.