The lights. The flag. The pride. The glory.

This is the moment athletes work their whole lives for. Everything seems surreal and perfect. But what goes beyond view is the fact that some athletes struggle to get to the games, even after rightfully earning their spot.

The cost of being an athlete is expensive; athletes have to pay for training, costumes/uniforms, equipment, and practically anything they use. Many athletes are dependent on the sponsors that they have gained.

But what about athletes who have just recently emerged to the scene, who do not have many sponsors yet, if any at all? They could be struggling a lot to physically get to the games.

Some athletes have created GoFundMe pages just to help raise some extra money in order to bring their families to the games for support. Our athletes, though some of the best in the world, still face struggles and setbacks that may limit them to compete at their highest ability.

This is where support from the community is crucial; and by the community, I mean the nation. Team USA accepts donations, which go directly toward costs of supporting the athletes of Team USA. These funds help these athletes reach the games. These funds help bring the athletes where they belong.

You can donate too; anything helps. Whether it be $20 or $100, everything adds up, and will help athletes reach their dreams of attending the Olympic Games with their families to see the big moment in person.

You will also gain incentives by donating, and may be offered to join the Olympic Sixth Ring, which is a special society of people who donate a certain amount. Sixth Ring members also get exclusive incentives every time their membership is renewed each Olympic cycle, which is Team USA's way of saying thank you.

If you would like to donate, you may do so here: https://donate.teamusa.org/page/contribute/support...