Here I am with my client, CJ Piantieri, at the AAU Special Olympics this past weekend at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. CJ was born in 1973, following a normal pregnancy, but suffered a stroke while in utero. Because of this CJ has severe language impairment, lack of motor planning, decreased proprioception, decreased control of the right side of his body, and a seizure disorder. Despite his impairments he has more heart than most lifters, or individuals, you’ll ever meet. He has been competitively Powerlifting for over 15 years with best lifts of 355-215-420 for a 990 total at 148 (the Special Olympics follow IPF rules with single ply suits, knee wraps, but no bench shirts). He’s had some recent health issues but is back on track to his goal for a 1,000 lb total and I’m more than happy to help him achieve it. Unfortunately this past weekend he caught a throat infection and was too sick to compete, but I’ll be coaching him at the Southeast Regionals on November 15th in Macon, Georgia and again at the Nationals in Nebraska in July.

The Special Olympics are an ideal venue for us, as Powerlifters, to help put our expertise and experience to good use to help those in need in a very positive way. Although this was the first Special Olympic event I’ve attended, it was obvious that they could use more help, even if it’s just to spot and load. Here’s the link on how to find more information on how to become a volunteer for the Special Olympics in your area:

http://www.specialolympics.org/volunteers.aspx.

Help make a difference,
Brian Schwab