Special Olympics changes lives

To the editor:

As "The Ringer," Bobby and Peter Farrelly's latest comedy, hits theaters, audiences will enjoy the trademark humor so often seen in a Farrelly brothers film. More importantly, they will see how Special Olympics changed one man's life. It's a story that is carried out every day in Missouri on and off the playing fields for the athletes and volunteers of Special Olympics.

While Special Olympics empowers individuals with mental disabilities to become physically fit through sports training and competition, Special Olympics is more than just sports. Special Olympics enriches the lives of athletes in countless ways. That's because Special Olympics athletes find friends who last a lifetime, achievements that make them proud and a community that embraces them. Succeeding in sports and finding a place to call their own enable Special Olympics athletes to grow physically, socially and emotionally.

The volunteers and coaches within Special Olympics also are transformed forever. In Special Olympics, the lines of difference blur and commonalties shine through, leading to greater understanding and acceptance. This newfound perception and respect extend beyond people with mental disabilities and is critical in the diverse world in which we live today.

In Missouri, 14,178 Special Olympics athletes train and compete in 19 sports year-around ranging from track and field to bowling with the help of 17,049 volunteers. I've seen scores of lives changed through the Special Olympics experience. It's a sight worth seeing and an experience worth living. It's a whole lot of fun. Come join us.

MARK MUSSO, President, Special Olympics Missouri, Jefferson City, Mo.