Ophthalmologist Is A Visionary for Special Kids
David Palmer, MD, assistant professor of clinical ophthalmology at the Feinberg School, is making an effort to do something about the fact that children with cognitive disabilities don’t have much access to team sports.
In 2003 he organized the Slammers baseball team to provide a sports outlet for his daughter, Rachael, and other children with cognitive impairments. With the help of another parent of a child with cognitive disabilities, he gathered 20 children to participate, all recruited by word of mouth. After a Chicago television segment on the team, the number jumped to 37. “After the TV piece we learned from people around the country that this type of team was rare,” he says. “We hope that it will be a template for other communities.”
Dr. Palmer’s hometown has embraced the team. Teen players from the local baseball association and area residents—adults and children alike—mentor the players on the Slammers team, telling them when to swing the bat, running the bases with them, and offering a steady stream of encouragement. In fact, so many people are on the field at once that keeping track of the game can sometimes be a challenge. No matter. The play is relaxed and in keeping with the individual abilities of the players, in the hopes that some of them will qualify for mainstream teams by the end of the season. This is practice for the “big leagues,” so to speak. Scores aren’t kept. Everyone plays, and everyone benefits. Parents cheer. Grandparents snap photos. High fives abound.
“Several of the players are autistic. Playing on the team helps improve their social skills, self-esteem, and communication abilities,” notes Dr. Palmer. “Some of the kids have really come out of their shells.” For parents, the team offers a valuable network, and new friendships have blossomed among them.
Every year the Slammers attend a major league baseball event, this year a Chicago White Sox game. They also have a yearly picnic where trophies and other awards are given. “We treat it just like a house league so that if they go mainstream, it won’t be that different,” Dr. Palmer stresses.
Regardless of whether they join mainstream teams, the players have a good time, become more fit, and learn about group dynamics. “They are eager to play,” adds Dr. Palmer. “Some of them are dressed in their uniforms and ready at 9 a.m.” Games start at 3 p.m.
For more information on the Slammers baseball team—or their basketball team offered during the winter months—visit www.slammerssports.org.