Let's Get Lawrence to Berlin!

Hello All,

My name is John Conley and I am helping to raise funds for one of my students, Lawrence Robuste. Lawrence is one of those students a teacher remembers their entire career. His smile will light up a room and his laugh is guaranteed to make your day. Currently, he is enrolled in a self-contained classroom for students with mild cognitive impairments. Next school year, he will move on to young adult programming after he graduates from Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor.

Lawrence began participating in Special Olympics when he was a freshman in High School and quickly realized that he had some incredible athleticism. That year he participated in the state Winter Special Olympic Games and without ever having put on skis before, he won second place in his division. The very next day he won gold. In total, he had officially worn skis three times in his life and only raced twice, yet he still earned two medals. Most people can only dream of something like this. Not Lawrence, he lived it.

This is Lawrence’s senior year and within his self-contained classroom, he has become a leader and a mentor to younger students. He can always be found helping anyone in need and is the epitome of the term selfless. He is one of many kids at home and as the oldest of the bunch, he has always been thrust into a leadership role. This is something he handles well and finds value in. He will gladly take on responsibility, which he always takes seriously.

At the end of his junior year, Lawrence participated in the state level Summer Special Olympic Games. These were his very first track events, meaning he had never formally been in a track competition. Lawrence dominated in every event he participated in. He received a silver medal in the long jump, which he had never even practiced before. Followed by absolute domination in the 100 and 200 meter races. He did so well in these races that he set Michigan Special Olympic records. His times qualified him for the World Special Olympic Games this summer in Berlin, Germany!

Lawrence will be racing for team USA this summer, representing his country, his home, and Ann Arbor Public Schools on the world’s stage. From the most humble of beginnings, until now, Lawrence is proof that no matter what disability one has, they can overcome challenges and adversity if their belief in themselves and their own abilities is strong. Lawrence has never made an excuse for himself, he just works harder. He has never asked for much, he just works for it. The world would be a better place if more of us worked as hard and persevered as much as Lawrence has in his lifetime. The best part? Now the world gets a chance to witness it as well.

The funds that are raised via this GoFundMe will help not only Lawrence to get to the games, but also some of his family. Traveling to Europe will be expensive, as will hotels and meals for 1-2 weeks. Any little bit will help so please consider donating if at all possible!

Due to overwhelming response, we increased the goal and any money left over will go directly to Pioneer Special Olympics, so that all student athletes have a chance to participate! Let’s keep it up!