These are just some of the expenses incurred by the F.I.R.S.T. wheelchair sports program. As I mentioned before, there have been many people gracious enough to help me realize my dreams and achieve my goals. It is now time for me to give to others in the same fashion. Help me help these kids. Yet many children with disabilities are still not getting ample opportunities to be with their peers in regular community settings.
Parents continue to struggle to find appropriate resources in the community for their children.
Whether in small towns or large cities here in Tennessee, children with disabilities are not participating in community activities at the same levels as their typically developing peers. Muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance are all honed through exercise. Improvements in these areas may prevent or lessen the need for corrective surgery. The severity of secondary conditions is lessened by physical activity. Other intangible results include less depression and greater feelings of competency and self-respect.