Built and fortified by generations, Special Olympics is home to many. What we may lack in biological ties, we more than compensate for with our shared commitment to inclusion and a sense of belonging. Special Olympics Michigan athlete Max Gilbert was raised by parents who taught him the importance of embracing people’s differences from a young age. And with Special Olympics, he has always felt right at home.
One of three siblings, Max’s eldest sister, Ally, was adopted from Vietnam at 13 months old. Their middle daughter, Ruby, was adopted from China in the early 2000s. The outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic during this period further complicated the adoption process.
“With Ally, we saw her picture on the internet and fell in love with her,” said Kimberly Gilbert-Shay, Max’s mother. “Adopting through Vietnam was difficult; we went there three times. And so, in China, the process was much easier with an agency.”
Working with the same agency, they decided to adopt once more in China. Then came Max.
“We thought it was going to be a girl,” explained Kimberly. “At that time, China had the one-child policy, so most families chose to keep the boys. We were shocked to meet Max.”
Now 20 years old, Max Gilbert has grown up to become an accomplished skier, disciplined athlete, enthusiastic sports fan. At just 5 years old, he began skiing. When he was old enough, he started training in alpine skiing with Special Olympics Michigan. At the top of the run, he was mesmerized by the views. And on the way down, he was hooked on the exhilaration of the sport.
“I just do skiing,” said Max. “Next year, I might do powerlifting.”
His continued dedication to Special Olympics alpine skiing over the years has proven successful. In 2025, Max will represent Special Olympics USA in alpine skiing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. A blended home of sorts, delegates travel from across the world to join the world’s largest inclusive winter sports event. And no matter their origin, uniform colors or spoken language, they are connected by a belief – humankind, in every form, should be celebrated.
“[Special Olympics] has given him a goal,” said Kimberly. “It’s given him a purpose. He’s met so many friends and so many people and he’s become a great skier… My girls ski as well. It’s something they can all do together.”
Max’s parents and older sisters plan to attend the Games in Italy. In many ways, travel has shaped their family and, in this case, will serve to strengthen their bond. Kimberly and her husband are no strangers to bridging long distances to bring the ones they love closer. They also encourage their children to see the world, to learn new cultures. Their eldest, Ally, has traveled to Vietnam to connect with her heritage. Max plans to visit China for the first time with his middle sister, Ruby, following her graduation from nursing school.
The Gilberts are dedicated to befriending others, from faraway places and in their own community. Alongside his mother, who is employed as a hospice nurse, Max volunteers in the activities department at a local retirement facility, bringing joy and connection to residents through crafts, music and games. Generations apart, they find common ground in the time they share.
Both the Gilberts and Special Olympics serve to remind us that home is not defined by bloodlines, by borders, but by the love and inclusion we offer others, welcoming anyone who seeks a place to belong.