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It is with a heavy heart that I write to let you know that my mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Founder of Special Olympics, passed away early this morning.
At the time of her death -- as it was throughout her long and full life -- she was surrounded and comforted by her family, her husband, her children, her grandchildren and those who loved her.
And as we mourn her passing, my father, siblings and I are strengthened by the outpouring of sympathy and heartfelt wishes we have received from her extended family -- the Special Olympics movement that she loved so deeply.
All of us would be proud and honored if you would take a moment to learn more about her life and the lives of those she touched by visiting a website that was recently established to honor her legacy, www.EuniceKennedyShriver.org.
That legacy would not exist without the Special Olympics family – athletes, families, volunteers, supporters and friends – who so fulfilled, motivated and enriched her during a lifetime of advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities.
Her faith in the Special Olympics community of which you are such a vital part was unfailing. And ultimately, that faith and confidence is what allowed her to envision a radically different world, one in which people with intellectual disabilities would be welcomed, included, accepted and valued at all levels of society the world over.
She fought the good fight, she kept the faith, and though she knew that race for equality and inclusion was not finished, she knew that the worldwide Special Olympics movement that she had hoped for long ago had become a reality that would carry and someday complete her vision.
On her behalf, as we prepare to say our last goodbyes, my family and I thank you for your shared commitment to that dream.
With great appreciation,
Timothy P. Shriver
Chairman & CEO
Special Olympics
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