Help us get more athletes onto the playing field

Through the power of sports, Special Olympics helps people with intellectual disabilities feel welcome in their communities and develop a profound belief in themselves.

This is story of Lani De Mello:

"When you have a child with an intellectual disability, you think your world is going to be closed. Special Olympics has opened a whole new world for Lani and given her opportunities that we never dreamed would be possible for our daughter."

Ana De Mello, mother of Special

Olympics athlete Lani DeMello

Lani De Mello was born with intellectual disabilities and a heart defect. Her doctors told her mother Ana, "Take her home. She's never going to achieve anything."

Flash forward 25 years and Lani is a Special Olympics gold medalist and a source of inspiration to her friends and family.

As a young girl, Lani took an interest in dance. She took classes at a local ballet studio, yet was unable to keep up with the other dancers. At 13, a friend recommended that she sign up to participate in Special Olympics. There, Lani finally had the support she needed and at her first gymnastics competition, she won almost exclusively gold medals.

Lani continued to work hard and wants to help other athletes succeed and build confidence. She received her coaching certification and has been assisting the gymnastics program. She even interned as a Technical Delegate for Rhythmic Gymnastics at the World Summer Games.

Your support of Special Olympics changes lives. Please donate to Special Olympics and help us reach one more person like Lani DeMello who is still waiting for a chance to feel accepted, build confidence, and be a champion!