In 2008, my son was given the chance of a lifetime to travel with 20 or so other physically challenged athletes to Dublin, Ireland to partake in the Physically Challenged Irish and American Youth Team games.

The trip was a wonderful two week tour of amazing sights and activities in Ireland, and games with the Irish and American athletes known as “the team.”  He had a blast.

We didn’t talk much while he was traveling about but photos were posted daily to share the scenery, the activities and the joy of the kids.  I share some of them here.

Founded in 1987, this organization has been taking kids to Ireland on this wondrous trip for years. They also bring athletes from Ireland here to partake the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged.

The folks who run the organization and kids who go are amazing. Many of the athletes are in wheelchairs, with disabilities ranging from spina bifida, cerebral palsy, hearing and sight impairments, cystic fibrosis, and spinal injuries. The events included competitions in track and field, swimming, horseback riding, and table tennis.

I heard that with all the financial worries in the world, funding was cut. Hoping things will revive and the luck of the Irish will return for them to continue their amazing work.  Find out more about their work.