Healthy Athletes Role Model Riane Deaton & Her Story

Special Olympics athlete Riane Deaton has become an official health messenger for SOTX Healthy Athletes.
 

Riane serves as an advocate for other athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities on the importance of positive health practices to stay prepared for all competitions and events. She began her journey with Healthy Athletes when she decided to make a lifestyle change for herself. In 2017, Riane decided to minimize her carbohydrate intake and cut out sugar. With these few small changes, she noticed she had a significant amount of energy to exercise! After experiencing the benefits of implementing these healthy practices, Riane decided to join the Healthy Athletes Committee in 2019. “I wanted to share what I had learned with other athletes,” says Riane. 

While at a basketball game in the West region, Riane decided to represent Healthy Athletes and set up a table with healthy snacks, over 250 inspirational patches, and 50 ways to exercise while at home. Riane said that drawing helps her cope with her anxiety and allows her to use her imagination. “Whenever I saw each athlete or Special Olympic parent, they had a huge smile! I am glad because kindness and being healthy do matter.”

We appreciate Riane’s kindness and leadership and look forward to all the amazing things she will accomplish as a health messenger!