CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Special Olympics has touched millions of lives for decades.
However, for some, it’s not affordable.
All athletes are required to take a physical exam before participating in Special Olympics, but that costs money.
Medfest has partnered with Atrium Health, Special Olympics of North Carolina and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to offer athletes free exams.
It’s sometimes the first exposure the athletes have to medical care.
“A lot of patient population has intellectual disabilities and don’t end up going to see a doctor, don’t get proper screening physicals and just kind of get not as good of care as the general population,” said Jordan Sestak, a resident of Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation.
Medfest also provides a chance to show athletes the range of sports available.
There will be another Medfest in Gaston County in the spring.
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