Put Reginald Barnes Jr. in an environment where he’s around cars with music on the radio and you will see what true joy looks like. He lights up the room everywhere he goes and will light the torch as the Ingalls 5K on the Causeway 2024 Special Olympics Ambassador.
The day Reginald was born, he was diagnosed with congenital hypoventilation syndrome, pulmonary hypertension and a seizure disorder, requiring him to be put on a ventilator and have a tracheostomy.
“I stayed in the hospital for almost three months,” said Reginald, who is now 21 years old. “Since birth, I have required 24-hour care and supervision.”
Reginald’s mother is Kawana Womack, a general foreman in Hull who works on the LPD program. It’s fitting that Kawana’s motivation to walk through the gates each day is her three children because, to Reginald, his mom is a superhero.
“I look forward to my mom walking through the door after work,” said Reginald. “Every day I get to greet her with a hug and kiss is a great day.”
One of Reginald’s proudest accomplishments is graduating from the Jackson County Exceptional School in May of 2023. Kawana is amazed by her son overcoming obstacles and not letting anything stop him from living his best life.
“Hearing the words ‘special needs’ inspires me to continue to advocate for my child,” said Kawana. “It is a joy to watch him develop through all the struggles and into the young man he is today.”
The Ingalls 5K on the Causeway raises money and awareness for the Mississippi Special Olympics. Reginald is honored to be this year’s ambassador and his mom is excited for him to be an inspiration to the community.
“The road less traveled is never the easiest, but it’s the road worth taking,” said Kawana. “Just know, my son, I wouldn’t change you for the world, but I would change the world for you.”
Watch Reginald light the torch at the 12th annual Ingalls 5K on the Causeway on Saturday, April 13. The event begins at 7:30 a.m. with a warm-up and opening statements. The race, which is a 5K on a fast and flat course, starts at 8 a.m. It’s followed by the fun run for kids.