Forever a star

Special Olympics Virginia hosted the annual Piedmont Regional Basketball Tournament on Sunday, February 21, at Longwood University. Adults and children with disabilities assembled to compete in full court, half court and skills competitions. Each athlete was recognized for his or her ability and talent.

The tournament began with an opening ceremony in which Courtney Garrett, 17 year-old Miss Outstanding Teen of Virginia, spoke on behalf of her brother, Special Olympics athlete, Austin Garrett, 13. Courtney Garret was shocked and honored when asked to speak at the event and appreciated the opportunity to speak to the people she loves and works with. Courtney Garrett was not expecting to be asked to speak, but uses her Outstanding Teen title to promote handicap awareness and inform others about people with intellectual disabilities. "I love seeing Austin's joy and being a part of it," said Courtney Garret. As Austin Garrett has, at times, lived in Courtney Garrett's shadow, the Special Olympics provide Austin Garrett the opportunity to be in the spotlight. "Growing up with Austin has been humbling, showing me that life isn't about me or to glorify myself," said Courtney Garrett.

Austin Garrett has cerebral palsy, along with forms of autism and epilepsy. Due to his disabilities, Austin is unable to speak but interacts with others by signing, laughing, and smiling. At the tournament, Austin Garret participated in the skills competitions. After a full day of dribbling, throwing, and shooting, Austin Garrett received a first place ribbon in his division. Austin Garrett is an extremely motivated and competitive person, willing to do his best at each and every skill. Austin Garrett, undoubtedly, enjoyed being a part of the tournament and appreciated the support of his family. "After spending an entire day with the Special Olympics, you are left with an overwhelming amount of joy and return home with an entire team of new friends," said Courtney Garrett.

Courtney Garret, along with youngest brother, Ryan Garrett, help Austin develop his skills and athletic abilities. The Garrett family is an extremely loving and supportive family, showing equal interest in each member's hobbies, sports, and passions. Courtney Garrett has competed in beauty pageants since age three--her brothers, in her words, "dread" watching each pageant, but willingly go to support her. The youngest Garrett, Ryan, is interested in geography and plays soccer. The entire family attends his soccer games and cheers him on. Austin Garrett's disabilities have only bonded the Garrett family, making each member stronger and more compassionate. Courtney Garrett believes her brother has, undeniably, shaped her into the mature, young woman she is today. "Austin has touched more lives than he could ever know," said Courtney Garrett. Austin Garret has made an impact and a difference in the lives of his family and friends. Regardless of his disabilities, Austin Garrett is a star that will forever shine ever so brightly.