Stacey Kohler and her family are preparing for “the trip of a lifetime” to Athens, Greece this June, when the South Surrey resident will represent Canada at the Special Olympics World Summer Games.
Stacey, who has a developmental disability, was still riding the excitement of her gold-medal performance last summer at nationals in London, Ont. when discussing the accomplishment with Peace Arch News this week.
“I got emotion in my stomach,” she said of winning first in the 800-metre, 1,500-m and 3,000-m events. “I’m so happy. I got butterflies in my stomach now.”
Stacey – who is active at Semiahmoo House Society – has been involved with Special Olympics BC since she was 16, and runs with its Delta chapter.
The times she clocked at nationals last July were personal bests, and qualified her to compete at the world level. She will be the only one from B.C. running for Team Canada in the 800 m, 1,500 m, 3,000 m and 4x400 m relay.
“This was kind of a dream,” Stacey’s mother, Breyl Kohler, said.
As the competition draws nearer, the 27-year-old continues to train regularly by kickboxing four times a week, working with a personal trainer twice a week and running six kilometres three days a week.
“She’s like a little energizer bunny,” Breyl said, noting the upcoming trip will be Stacey’s first time abroad.
While opening ceremonies kick off June 25, Stacey and other athletes will have an opportunity to tour Athens and take in the culture a few days beforehand.
Stacey said she is looking forward to tasting authentic spanakopitas, as well as excelling on the track.
“I’m hoping to get another medal,” she said, noting her parents and boyfriend Andrew will be cheering her on from the stands. “It feels good – my mom is cheering in my head. That makes me happy.”
Stacey has another opportunity to look forward to this year – she has been lined up with work at Choices Markets through Semiahmoo House Society’s Customized Employment Program, which assists people with disabilities in finding meaningful employment.
Breyl said it’s positive for Stacey – who is friendly, loves to talk and is a hard worker – to be out in the workforce.
“It’s just nice that some of these companies are willing to give our guys a chance… They’re all capable, but not everybody is willing to give them a chance.”