Donovan Report: Last race

The journey is over. He swam his heart our and went faster, but the world is younger, taller and faster. His time of 2:30.22 was as fast as he has gone in 2 years, his best time would not have gotten him on the podium.

The last night of the Paralympic swim meet is the most stressful for staff. Those who are of age go out and usually party, those who are younger are in the village. Team meetings and other admin. Stuff delayed Donovan, we went to dinner with Paul and Karen and finally at 10:30 he and Leanne made it. His spirits were positive and as with all meets relief that it was over. He was proud of his efforts, no regrets!

Donovan with treasured pals

The last 2 years for Donovan has been a remarkable journey. He spent 6 months in Colorado attending the National Federation for the blind training facility. He was there from March to October 2011. He learned independent skills and to graduate had to cook a meal for 60 and on 3 occasions be dropped off in Denver and make his way home, no hints given. He also arranged his own training, David Lee took him on at a whole lot of levels, he welcomed David’s approach and training at altitude helped. He met many people and developed a circle of loyal friends.

Lunch with Colorado Crew

Loretta and Steve are two such people. He has climbed mountains with Steve and in fact they plan to tackle Kilimanjaro next June! Loretta has opened her home and heart to Donovan.

Loretta was in town to see her son and his family and yesterday we all lunched together. The group photo says it all. Two beautiful children aged 2 and 4 were curious about Donovan but by they end of lunch they were sharing their treasured stuffed animals with him; they do not often part with their treasured pals.

After lunch we went to Hamsted and a long walk in the park, then zipped down to the waterfront to catch the parade at the Thames festival. Londoners are a participatory folk and the streets were lined for the “Fire parade”.

Fire Parade Mascot

The trip is winding down, today we will facilitate Donovan’s move from the village, fortunately he can stay with Paul and Karen tonight and then he is off on a short vacation. He will make it on his own to Glasgow, then travel to see friends in Belfast, then to the Haag. He will be utilizing the skills attained in Denver to travel independently and with confidence.