THE BOSTON MARATHON’S STRUGGLE TO INCLUDE DISABLED VETERANS: Patrick Downes
Patrick Downes
Patrick Downes became an amputee while standing at the finish line of the Boston Marathon with his wife in 2013 when IED detonated and killed four spectators. He recently wrote an article in the The Boston Globe criticizing the Boston Marathon and the Boston Athletic Association for their lack of inclusion of disabled competitors in the race.
Downes joins us today to discuss his experience on that day in 2013, his road to recovery that introduced him to scores of amputees at Walter Reed and his struggle to have “Patriots Ride on Patriots Day.”
This story is an amazing look at how athletes with disabilities are still treated as second class citizens in legendary high-visibility competitions. His personal story is also one of incredible discovery about the world of the American Military as he and his wife did rehab at Walter Reed and came to know the most selfless, courageous and inspirational fighters on the planet.
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