Prince Rupert played host to the latest instalment of the Special Olympics BC Healthy Athletes Screening on May 13.

Through Healthy Athletes, health care professionals receive training about the specific health care concerns of people with intellectual disabilities and how to ask the right questions, helping them draw out issues. Their interactions with Special Olympics athletes lead to referrals back into the health care system that ensures the individuals will get the treatment they need.

Sarah Russell, Health and Engagement Coordinator for SOBC said the response to the event was positive.

“There’s a real appetite for these events in the communities,” said Russell. “The coaches and athletes that came through were really engaged in the program.”

Russell said the athletes were particularly interested in better food nutrition information.

“It’s important to be able to get information like nutrition and healthy food choices into the athlete’s hands. Sometimes they are surprised to find out what’s wrong with some of their favourite foods."

Russell also said with the summer just around the corner, proper hydration and sun safety are also a priority at this time of the year. She said lots of water, sunscreen and a hat can go a long way to ensuring and safe and healthy summer.  

People with intellectual disabilities experience worse health care and access to services than others in their communities. Globally, millions of people with intellectual disabilities lack access to quality healthcare and experience dramatically higher rates of preventable disease, chronic pain and suffering, and premature death in every country around the world. 

Globally, Special Olympics Health is made possible by the vision and support of the Golisano Foundation, and partners such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Lions Clubs International.

Here in B.C., Special Olympics BC’s health work is made possible by the generous support of Westminster Savings and the Government of British Columbia, as well as a Golisano Foundation Special Olympics Healthy Communities grant and the ongoing support of our provincial partners and fundraising events.

After the event, participants will receive follow-up cards in the mail that can help connect them with any necessary appointments and services. 

The next SOBC Healthy Athletes Screening Day is being planned for Castlegar on Sept. 22.