The Abby Szott Courage Award

The 2008 Abby Szott Courage Award was presented to Laura Franson. Laura is a Special Olympic gymnast who trains at Mini Hops Gymnastics in Minnetonka. She had been a member of the team for several years when she was diagnosed with heart failure requiring a heart transplant. She (and her family) showed great courage in the face of adversity. It is very difficult for a person with an intellectual disability to convince the medical community to place them on a transplant list, but through the persistence of Laura and her family, she was put on the list and eventually a new heart was found for her. It was challenging journey, but through all of the hard times, Laura remained optimistic, hopeful and courageous.

What is the Abby Szott Courage Award?

The Abby Szott Courage Award was created by the Minnesota Gymnastics Foundation in 2007. The recipient may be a college, high school or club student. Students do not apply for the award; the committee, by word of mouth, chooses a gymnast who has overcome great obstacles. The purpose of this and their other awards is to join and recognize the accomplishments of college, high school and club participants. The first award went to Abby Szott for her display of heroic faith, courage and dignity as she strived to win her battle with cancer.

Although not affiliated with the Andrew and Abby Szott Foundation, we are proud to share with you the recipients of this award created in Abby's memory.