Luis

Luis, 28, is a two-time Special Olympics World Games gold medalist from the Dominican Republic. This remarkably gifted tennis player has earned gold medals at both the 2003 World Games in Ireland and most recently at the 2019 Abu Dhabi World Games. Luis' total medal count between local, regional, national, and international competitions is nearly at 100 medals. The skilled athlete has been practicing his sport since age fifteen, and has participated in other @specialolympics programs since he was four.

When not competing, Luis can be found honing his drawing skills and attending @bestbuddies and @gigisplayhouse events with friends. He's also a percussionist with the Dominican Theatrical Orchestra of the Ministry of Culture of the Dominican Republic, as well as the Ritmos Band, directed by Laurina Vasquez of the Center of Modern Musical Education.

Luis' goals for the future include working in the United States and competing in Special Olympics games in Europe. His mother Elba says that she's supported him "in everything since birth," and that she'll continue to. She adds, "Que meintras mayor integracion mejores frutos." ("With more integration comes more fruits.") We agree fully. It's no surprise that life expectancies for individuals with disabilities increased when outside of institutions and given access to the same activities and experiences the abled community is provided with.

"When Luis was born, I was surprised that at my age, 26, I had a child with Down syndrome since at that time was said that only women over 40 do, but with the years I realized that God chooses special mothers to take care of his angels."