Say what? Olympian inspired by brother with disability...

I watched the NBC news coverage of Alex Bilodeau's outstanding performance during and after the men's moguls event and was impressed.  But, what really impressed me was what followed.

When the camera spanned the audience and the commentator focused on Alex's older brother, Frederic (age 28) who has Cerebral Palsy, I was glued to the TV and I soon realized there was more than one winner in this story.  This came to light once again when I watched a short documentary before the award ceremony which featured Alex and his brother.  It showcased their loving bond and tears filled my eyes as Alex himself, was quick to respond (once again) that his older brother was the inspiration behind his gold medal performance. 

Frederic, although able to walk some, apparently spends most of his time in a wheelchair.  He cheered and raised his arm in praise of Alex's performance; so proud of his brother's win!  But he is a winner too, for his own inspiring example to never complain and to perform to the best of his ability.   

Alex's own soft-spoken words deeply touched me when he said, "When he wakes up he's got that big smile, and when he goes to bed he's got that big smile."  

Does that sound like anyone you might know?  It definitely sounds like a special girl in our family who inspires us all with her courage, her determination to succeed, and; of course, her beautiful smile!

These young men are both heroes in my book and role-models for all siblings who live with, or with somone, who has a disability! 

Best,
Julie