The annual Mina's Wish Bowling Tournament was founded in 2011 in honor of my twin sister Armina. My sister developed a high fever at the age of 13 months which caused irreversible brain and cognitive damage. Growing up with a mentally challenged sister was difficult at times due to society viewing her as different, however it gave me insight on the struggles that occur within the individual and th
eir loved ones and a newfound respect for individuals with disabilities. In my adult life I began to realize the many things in life that my sister would never be able to experience due to her disability, this sparked a fire in me to make a difference. I began the Mina's Wish Bowling Tournament to raise funds for the home that Armina moved to when we turned 19. I wanted her and her roommates to be able to experience life as we do. My mother and I thought of the idea to have a fundraiser in honor of The Nutmeg Home and get our family and friends involved in these women's lives. We planned the first event in less than 2 months and set the date for the weekend before our birthday. I think this is the best gift I have ever received or given in my life. I am so glad to celebrate our birthday doing something that makes a difference to not only me and my sister, but the women of the Nutmeg Home as well as all the wonderful donors, family and friends that we are surrounded by. I want to thank everyone who takes the time out of their lives to make a difference in the lives of these women. Every year since 2011, these women get to experience new adventures by taking trips and being a part of society as we are. They are cared and loved for by many. Although the disabilities of these women sometime limit what they can experience in life, I am glad to say that the amount of support and love these women receive every year has made it possible for these women to push those limits.
