Eunice Kennedy Shriver died today at 88. Yes, she was the sister of a president and two Senators. But, this woman has one proud legacy all her own. Almost single-handedly, she changed the way the world treated people with developmental disabilities. A close friend of mine, Michael "Mickey" Gardner, worked with Mrs. Shriver on the first Special Olympics back in July of 1968. That was her vision. Mickey has many great stories about their work together - and I can listen to his stories endlessly. Today, he told me:
Eunice Kennedy Shriver, more than any of her siblings, changed the world forever by proving that mentally challenged youngsters and adults can make an important contribution to society. Her tenacious dedication to the Special Olympics has insured her lasting legacy for future generations who otherwise would be on the sidelines and in the shadows of societies around the world.I've heard him say something along those lines for years. This woman really believed in what she did and she made the world better for it.
