ORLANDO, Fla. — Isabella Valle cried with joy last summer when she learned she had won a spot at the 2022 Special Olympics USA, to be held in Orlando. But with less than a month to go from the opening ceremonies, the 25-year-old golfer’s tears are now of frustration and disappointment.
His mother, Elaine Valle, received an email on April 22 from Special Olympics International stating that vaccination against COVID-19 is mandatory for all athletes. Because Valle didn’t provide proof of vaccinations, the email says her daughter can’t make the team and can’t participate in the games.
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