Special. Adjective. Euphemism for having a disability, esp. a behavioral or mental disability; low-functioning mental retardation in particular. 

This is why I love New York City so much. Just yesterday, the most compassionate city in the world decided to give a ticker-tape parade to this special little guy. Awwww!!! It's so sweet. And it just proves that, if you really put your mind to it, anyone can achieve their dreams!