12.Apr.2010 "Flame of Hope" in Kailua-Kona

West Hawaii Today reporter and Special Olympics West Hawaii Blog editor Carolyn Lucas wrote an awesome article about the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run, which benefits Special Olympics. The story was published April 12 and can be viewed on the newspaper’s Web site. Here’s an excerpt:

Speech wasn’t necessary to communicate 18-year-old Isaiah Wong’s joy Sunday.

The nonverbal Special Olympics West Hawaii athlete clutched tightly in his hand the “Flame of Hope,” smiled enormously upon seeing the crowd gathered at The Club in Kailua-Kona and finished the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run with heart.

“I’m speechless. There are no words to describe our gratitude for Special Olympics. This organization means so much to Isaiah and our close-knit family,” said Norma Wong, his mother. “Isaiah has autism. This is his second year with Special Olympics, which has helped him grow socially, boost his self-confidence and fulfill his passion for competition. It’s also something that brings us even closer to together as a family.

Please enjoy the following photos taken by fantastic SOWH volunteer Nikki Cleintuar. To view the entire album, click here.