2006 USA National Games Closing Ceremonies Suzanne Thompson, mother of Special Olympics Illinois athlete Caitlin Cox, was chosen as the family representative to speak on behalf of families at the Closing Ceremonies for the 2006 Special Olympics USA National Games in Ames, Iowa. With one day's notice, Thompson crafted this speech and gave a powerful address to the crowd, electrifying the entire audience and receiving a standing ovation. “Empower, unite, compete … these are the three words that will have new meaning for the families of these exceptional Special Olympics athletes. “We came to Iowa State University because of the generosity of its people and the unconditional acceptance of the thousands of volunteers who helped make this week a dream come true. Without their kindness and willingness to be a part of this monumental event we would not be here. We will be forever in their debt for allowing us to experience as families the wonder of this week. Suzanne Thompson, as seen on the telescreen as she spoke during Closing Ceremonies. Thompson is the mother of Special Olympics Illinois athlete Caitlin Cox, who participated in bowling, and was joined in Ames by 32 family members, including her brother, grandmother, father and stepfather, cousins, uncles, aunts and family friends. [Photo by Ryan Eades] “Our athletes have been given the opportunity to compete and excel in the events in which they are gifted. Through those competitions they have become empowered as individuals to believe that nothing is impossible, there is nothing they cannot achieve. As families we know that their greatness lies in who they are as individuals, not in the medals that they wear. Through continued family campaigning we will one day convince the world of this. “As individuals we have been empowered to begin a better journey in our own lives. There is no doubt that we are better people for having experienced this week. What is most important for our families is that we take this moment, this unbelievable experience and make the world we live in a better place. “Some years ago there were bracelets, necklaces, bumper stickers and T-shirts that bore these four letters: WWJD. Do you remember those? The letters stood for 'What Would Jesus Do.' As I sat watching my daughter Caitlin bowling this week, I was once again struck by the love that these athletes showed for one another, the unconditional acceptance and the ability to be happy for someone who possessed skills greater than their own. We seemed to exist in a time warp of complete goodness, kindness and hope, where being real was the most important personality trait and smiling was the norm. Having a genuine heart was the common thread running through the spectators in the crowd. “I'm sure that no matter what venue your athlete participated in, you experienced what I am talking about. Just imagine what it would be like if we took a bit of this magic home with us tomorrow to our communities, to our workplace, to our schools, so that others can have their hearts opened and feel what we have felt this week. “I have a new T-shirt I want to see worn, a new bracelet I want to see created, that would bear these five letters: WWSOD. What would a Special Olympics athlete do? The next time you are making a difficult decision, facing a monumental obstacle, asking who you are, and how to treat your fellow man, be reminded of this awesome week and these incredible athletes and what we all have shared together as a family and repeat these five letters — WWSOD — and you will have your answer. “Thank you, Iowa. Thank you, Iowa State University. Thank you, volunteers, and thank you, athletes, for you are the single greatest gift our families have ever been given. We love you!”