I miss my mom so much, and think of her often.

I feel her loving, full-of-life energy when I spend time with my children and grandchildren. I recognize her enthusiasm and toughness in each Special Olympics athlete. I see her commitment to inclusion and getting everybody on the same playing field at each practice, event, and competition.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was the leader of my family, a trailblazer for acceptance, and the incredible founder of our shared movement –– Special Olympics. Her 100th birthday would’ve been this Saturday, July 10. I plan to spend the day with my family, celebrating her remarkable life and looking ahead at what we can do to accomplish her vision of a more inclusive world.

Will you celebrate with us by adding your name to my mom’s birthday card today?

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My mom came from a large, famous family where her brother John became president, her brother Bobby was attorney general, and her brother Ted was a senator for almost 50 years. But, it was her close relationship with her older sister, Rosemary, that most inspired her to be a leader and advocate for equality and acceptance. Rosemary had an intellectual disability and my mother was adamant that she receive the same opportunities as everyone else. Through her deep love for Rosemary, my mom felt empowered to make a difference and open hearts and minds around the world.

So, she started a movement that few others believed in over 50 years ago and founded Special Olympics. She knew that the power of sports can foster acceptance, inclusion, and meaningful change. And, she was right!

Today, her movement has grown to reach more than 5.7 million athletes and people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in 200 countries and jurisdictions each year. Thanks to supporters like you, every day we help people with ID thrive on the field, in the classroom, and out in their communities. Special Olympics is a place where friendships are formed, potential is realized, and champions are made.

It all started with a woman who believed in inclusion and was willing to act on it. I’m so thankful you share that belief today and that my mother lives on in the hearts and minds of Special Olympics athletes, coaches, volunteers, and dedicated supporters like you.

Please, join me in celebrating my mom, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, ahead of her 100th birthday.

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Thank you,

Tim Shriver
Chairman, Special Olympics

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