Jessica “Jessy” Lane of Chico, California, has participated in Special Olympics since 2004 and has competed in athletics, bocce, bowling and golf. For Jessy, attending the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 is a dream come true. She will represent Special Olympics USA in golf. In 2022, Jessy competed in golf at the Special Olympics USA Games. Being involved with Special Olympics has provided Jessy an avenue to stay physically fit and practice her social skills. In addition to training with Special Olympics, Jessy attends workout classes at Orangetheory Fitness and has lost 100 pounds in doing so.
For the past 16 years, Jessy has worked at Little Red Hen’s Floral Store, employed as a senior staff assistant and lead floral designer. After graduating from high school, she earned her certificate in floral design at Butte College in 2007. To promote her skills, she volunteers to work at bridal, home and garden shows.
Her greatest friend and supporter is her mother, Margaret, who has advocated for her involvement in Special Olympics. As an athlete, Jessy has learned to be more confident in meeting others and expressing herself. To Jessy, representing Special Olympics Northern California is an opportunity to show others how practice can lead to success.