For several years now, my family attended the state Special Olympics in Fargo to support my Uncle Paul. This had become one of the activities I looked forward to each year since I was a little girl. Sadly, my uncle passed away last summer and is no longer with us.

My family decided to pass out tribute bracelets in his name to his Bismarck teammates, but to our disappointment, his team wasn't able to attend this year due to a lack of funding and coaches.

I ask: What is wrong with our society when Bismarck can't raise enough money for these great athletes to come to one of the most important and exciting events of their lives?

My grandparents even drove from Minot to cheer for Paul's teammates. We were so disappointed and unbelievably sad that they could not be here.

These people deserve to be helped out.

Even teams from smaller cities like Belcourt and Valley City were competing.

Next year, I hope the city of Bismarck becomes more resourceful in raising enough money and recruiting volunteers so these athletes can achieve their dreams.