Paralympics: Where Heroes Come Book

The purpose of this book is to use sport as a vehicle to show the achievements of individuals with disabilities. With more than 600 colour photographs and 258 pages, this book shows the tremendous impact that a largely-volunteer group, the Paralympic movement, can have on society. Gary McPherson, Chair of the Alberta Premier's Council on the Status of Persons With Disabilities, says, "The ripple of the disabled sports movement is immense. So many people have gained from it in the areas of rehabilitation, competitive sport, and better social conditions. If you are going to bring about social change, you need to do it in a positive way rather than in a negative way. Sport is a positive vehicle to show what can be done, and how it can be done." The people profiled in the book are not only successful in the world of disabled sport -- many are elite athletes at the pinnacle of their careers -- they are successful in mainstream society as well.The strong message that comes through from those profiled is that those with disabilities can overcome the barriers they face. Dr. Steadward says of the special people he worked with, "They never thought that their disabilities would in any way limit their ambition, or their ability to participate in anything they wanted to do." Repeatedly the message is, "I can do so much more than I thought I could. The secret is to try." The story of the Paralympic Games, second in size only to the Olympic Games, is the story of volunteers, thousands and thousands of volunteers, who over the years have made tremendous sacrifices to improve the lives of those with disabilities. It is the story of skilled professionals,whose research and commitment benefit not only athletes, but all people with disabilities. The development of specialized racing wheelchairs, for example, led to the improvement of design in regular wheelchairs. It is the story of people who are role models for those in every walk of life.As one of the slogans developed by Joey Reiman (Brighthouse Ad Agency) for the Atlanta Games says, "The Olympic Games are where heroes are made. The Paralympic Games are where heroes come." This book is written to inspire. One reader may be a sports fan looking for photographs of elite athletic performances. Other readers might be those who find themselves suddenly disabled, or families looking for reassurance that their efforts can make a difference in the life of a loved one with a disability, or discouraged volunteers who need to see that they can make a difference. This book helps all its readers see their own potential with new clarity. Profits from the book will be used to further spinal cord research, rehabilitation, awareness, and education through the Rick Hansen Centre at the University of Alberta.Read More