Jess credits Special Olympics and the friends she’s made there for making her who she is today. She’s been involved with the organization for more than 17 years, and is a Global Messenger for Special Olympics. Her advocacy brought her all the way to Capitol Hill Days in DC to talk about it! She participates in long distance walking, bowling and bocce—her favorite sport because she gets to play on a unified team with her mom. Unified Sports allows people with and without intellectual disabilities play together on the same team.
To stay positive, Jess reminds herself how strong she is:
“I know I’m a strong person and I know I’m loved by everyone. I’ve come so far in my life, and I’m a strong woman.”
Along with #AerieREAL Role Models, Aly Raisman and Iskra, we were so excited to welcome Jess and 6 other Special Olympics athletes to our photo studio for a full day of #AerieREAL in honor of Global Week of Inclusion.
See more from Jess and our day celebrating Special Olympics athletes here.
Thank you for stepping up, Aerie!!! My family and I have shopped at your store for a long time. You have made us proud to support your business