For those of you who missed it, below is the text from a presentation by local Canby High School student, Carleigh Dewald, made at our Family Support Department’s movie screening of "Including Samuel" on February 11, 2012.

Carleigh spoke about how inclusion has worked for her, her role in the world of wheelchair racing, and her involvement in the Pan American games.  Carleigh is currently working hard with the goal of making the team for the 2012 Paralympic games, which will be held in London.

Hi there,  my name is Carleigh.  When Susan approached me about sharing my story, I was excited.  And a little nervous about what to say so I thought I would start at the beginning. 

I came into this world at a whopping 4 pounds 3 ounces.  I wasn't diagnosed with CP until I reached about 9 months old.  Just as Samuel's parents had worries about his future, I'm sure my parents had some of the same concerns. 

To be honest, before I watched the trailer to the movie I wasn't sure what inclusion meant.  I soon realized that I was fortunate to have a support group and school system that had inclusion in place for me.  I didn't grow up secluded from the public or my peers.  My parents, teachers, friends, and coaches all share a big part in my social growth and independence.

I actually enjoy public school.  I have found lasting relationships, received a world class education, and felt the relief that comes from acceptance.  My father tells me the story of how my kindergarten teacher put his mind at ease.  He asked, “How are the other kids reacting to Carleigh?”  Mrs. Ruwitch replied, “They are becoming better people because of her.” 

Don't get me wrong, I am still the kid in the wheelchair to most.  You see, people are initially recognized by appearance.  Perhaps their hair color or their height.  Wheels are simply easier to remember.  But, if you have the courage to approach me and introduce yourself, you will soon get to know me as Carleigh.

To give you an idea of my high school experience, you should know that I am a Junior and hold a GPA of 3.85.  I am currently enrolled in two college courses and a member of the National Honor Society.  I even did a two year stint in the marching band, if you can believe that.

I started playing sports at a fairly young age.  Challenger Baseball gave me some much needed confidence.  About four years ago, I got involved in an organization called Oregon Disability Sports.  ODS offers many different opportunities for athletes, young and old.  I have enjoyed playing basketball on the weekends  for the Portland Wheel Blazer's junior team.  We are a young team and always looking for new recruits.

About that same time I also got involved with another organization out of Eugene called World Wheelchair Sports.  As soon as Kevin Hansen fitted me for a racing wheelchair I was hooked.  I started participating in eighth grade track.  Coach Huggins, who happened to be my fourth grade teacher, welcomed me with a big smile.  I'm sure he was more nervous than I was.   

Now at the high school level I have made some big improvements with each new track season.  Sure, I made a few rookie moves.  Like that freshman year incident with the hurdle.  As I was about to flip over I actually muttered the phrase, “ Oops, didn't see that one coming.”  Coach still has fun with that one.

Last season while competing at the Oregon Relays, I pushed a personal best and broke the American Record for the women's 400 meter race in my classification. 

This got the Olympic Committees attention.  By the summer of 2011, I was on my way to compete at the Track and Field Nationals in Miramar Florida.  While there, I met some amazing athletes and made some good friends.

Shortly after returning home, I received a call from the Olympic Committee.  I had qualified to be a member of the 2011 Parapan American track and field team that would compete in Guadalajara Mexico in November.

In preparation for the Parapan games, I traveled to the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista,  California.  After a couple of weeks of rigorous training I was ready for Parapan.

When it came to race day.  I was ready.  I had been down there for about a week.  I was training in the morning and cheering my team on in the afternoon.  It was my turn for glory.  I would be racing against my two roommates and two other ladies from Canada.  They were all in their mid- twenties and here I was just sixteen years old.  I got off the line first.  I had the lead for the first 100 meters.  Near the end of the race my teammate, Kristen Messer passed me to win the gold.  I finished second with a silver medal in my first international event.  As you can imagine, I was surprised by my performance.

The Mexico event was one of the most amazing experiences of my life thus far.  I met people from all over the world.  While we spoke different languages, came from different cultures, and expressed ourselves differently, we were all Olympic athletes with one goal in mind.  To simply do our best.

Looking back.  I would have to give thanks to the Olympic Committee for making the athletes feel included in this International event.  From the adapted housing to the awards podium, I felt proud to be part of our national team.

Well, now I have my sights set on the Paralympic Summer Games at London, England this coming  September.  To get an invitation to be on the London team, I will need to shave at least one second off my best time.  I have been working out each day, eating right, and getting mentally prepared for achieving my goal.  I recently got an invitation to compete in the BT World Cup at Manchester, England this coming May.  I hope to do well there and secure my place on the London Team.