Especially in school. I was the jokester, the one who made people laugh, but not the athlete. Still, I dreamed. I remember watching Mary Lou Retton soar across the TV screen during the 1984 Olympics, scoring perfect 10’s and thinking, I want to do that.

I loved volleyball, football, basketball – anything that brought people together and made you feel part of something. I could run fast and had a mean arm throwing baseballs and footballs. And yes, I even dreamed of being an MMA fighter.

But I never joined a team. I was told I was too short, too scrawny, etc… so convinced myself I didn’t belong to those spaces. And my parents? They were working hard just to make ends meet. They didn’t have the time, money, or know how to sign me up. Little Vietnamese girls don’t play sports, so just give up.

Still, deep down, I believed: I could do that. I just needed a chance. That’s why leading this organization means so much to me.

I’ve been told to give up, both in the past and even more recently as I’ve stepped in leadership role at Special Olympics Washington. But giving up was never an option.

Seven months into the CEO role, I’ve had a lot to reflect on. We’ve had to make some tough calls—scaling back, letting go of traditions we’d held onto for too long, and starting the hard work of rebuilding trust and confidence. I’ll be honest… stepping into this role and making changes from day one didn’t exactly make me the fan favorite. But I knew we couldn’t keep doing things the way they’d always been done — not if we want to grow, serve more athletes, and ensure this movement thrives for the next 50 years.

But, like our athletes, I’ve learned that true strength isn’t just about winning; it’s about having the courage to keep going even if others doubt you and to keep fighting for inclusion and opportunity.

This mission means everything to me, to our community, and to the thousands of athletes and athletes who count on us.

Being in this role where I can be a part of building a more inclusive world through sport, health, and leadership is more than full circle. It’s the slam dunk I never made. The home run I never hit. The touchdown I always dreamed of scoring. (Insert very cool touchdown celebration dance here.)

And to do it alongside incredible athletes, families, volunteers, partners, and supporters across Washington is everything.

The Special Olympics Oath has always guided me: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

That bravery shows up every day. In every race run, every basketball shot, every unified high-five. It shows up in families, coaches, and communities who believe in a world where everyone belongs.

In the past year alone, we served 12,175 athletes and Unified partners, supported by 8,092 volunteers, 1,339 coaches, and 145 Unified Champion Schools. We held 86 competitions and delivered more than 600 free health screenings.

Those numbers matter. But what matters more are the moments: The first finish line crossed. The crowd erupting in cheers. The quiet confidence of a young athlete realizing they belong.

So this week, we celebrate. We look back with pride and forward with purpose.

But let’s be clear: we’re not done. Right now, we’re only reaching about 5% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Washington State. That means thousands of people are still waiting on the sidelines to feel included, to compete, to lead, and to belong.

As we celebrate 50 years of impact, we can’t take our foot off the gas. This is our moment to go further. To reach more athletes. To open more doors. To ensure everyone, everywhere, has the opportunity to shine.

Here’s how you can be part of it:

June 15–21 – Shop with Purpose at Safeway and Albertsons. Donate at checkout at your local Safeway and Albertsons to support athletes across Washington with access to sports, health, and leadership opportunities. Fun fact: Did you know that many of our Special Olympics Washington athletes are beloved employees of Safeway and Albertsons?

June 16 – Celebrate at the Mariners Game Join us at T-Mobile Park as the Mariners take on the Red Sox for Special Olympics Night, at 6:40 p.m! While the special ticket offer (including the limited-edition T-shirt) has closed, join us at T-Mobile Park as we recognize the athletes, families, and supporters who make inclusion possible.

June 20–22 – Volunteer at the State Spring Games. This is our biggest event of the year and wouldn’t be possible without you. Whether you’re supporting competitions or creating joy in Olympic Town, you are making magic. Sign up to volunteer!

June 10–20 – Join the Torch Run Movement. Donate or purchase a commemorative shirt in support of the hundreds of law enforcement carrying the Flame of Hope across the state. Join the Torch Run here.

Can’t join in person? You can still make a difference. Make a gift today. Your donation—no matter the size—tells our athletes: I see you. I believe in you. I’m cheering you on. Donate here or create a fundraising page.

For five decades, Special Olympics Washington has proven sport is more than a game. It’s a powerful platform for acceptance, community, and joy. We see it beyond disability. We see potential.

To our supporters, athletes, families, partners, and friends: thank you for believing in this mission. Thank you for helping build a more inclusive Washington.

Want a little more inspiration? Watch this video and let’s make the next 50 years even more unforgettable.

With gratitude and hope,

Mary Do | President & CEO | Special Olympics Washington