Elementary Students get Lesson in Disability

Athletes from the University of Illinois put on quite a show this afternoon for students at Thomasboro Elementary School and its all to raise awareness about disabilities. Its Disability Awareness month and the University of Illinois Wheelchair Athletes kick it off at Thomasboro Elementary School shooting hoops and learning lessons. Team members say it’s all about focusing on the “can-do” attitude. Disability Specialist and teammate, Jennifer Ruddell says, “We go into a lot of different schools and do an assembly or teach PE classes just to help kids and teachers become aware of different disabilities and some of the things they can do.” These athletes dont focus on their limitations rather their strengths. Their message to keep trying seems to be catching on with the kids. Kindergarten student Sydni Gust says with some work anyone can cut it “ You just have to do a lot of practice then you can do it.” After the laughs Ruddell says “The goal is to erase stereotypes. people have misconceptions about disability and the ability of people with disabilities so we like to come in and show them that people with disabilities are just like everybody else.”