Kathie, I'm not sure if you remember us, but my daughter, Emma, and I attended the sessions you did in Pueblo, CO earlier this year. I wanted to let you know that I continue to challenge myself in terms of Emma and inclusion.

This summer, we signed her up for the parks and recreation T-ball team. I didn't know who her coach would be, and didn't know anyone on her team—it felt like somewhat of a risk for me as a parent. But the entire experience has been so amazing, rewarding, and hopeful! So I nominated Emma and her team as the "Little Athletes of the Week," a weekly segment on a local television station. It aired tonight, and I wanted to share it with you: www.newsfirst5.com/news/emma-eberhart-a-story-of-acceptance-and-sportsmanship

Now to explain something. The opposing team usually does not allow Emma to make it to the base—they try to throw her out just like all of the other players. For some reason, the opposing team's coach told them to not throw her out—it must have been because the TV camera was there! And when Emma makes her way around the bases, the other kids cheer her on.

The camera crew taped for more than an hour, so there were great things that didn't make it into the final TV story, including interviews with three of Emma's teammates. When they were asked how it was having Emma as a teammate, the consistent response was, "It's good—we help her and she helps us!"

I share this with you to say thank you. Your philosophy and writings continue to challenge me every day to ensure Emma has a life where she is totally included in the community!

Teresa Eberhart