SHANGHAI, China--During the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games in October, Special Olympics honored Drs. Paul Berman and Steven Perlman and others for the "special" contributions they have made and continue to make to promote and raise awareness of the understanding and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities, and the Special Olympics movement around the world.
Other individuals honored including Nelson Mandela, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Nadia Comaneci, Yao Ming, and the city of Shanghai guests included Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Timothy Shriver, Maria Shriver, Quincy Jones, Colin Farrell, Bianca Jagger, Donna deVerona and Special Olympics International Global Messengers with performances by Vanessa L. Williams, Lang Lang, Sun Rue and Yang Chen. The ceremony was broadcast throughout China.
"All of the "Special Spirit in China Award of Excellence" honorees have been longtime fans of the Special Olympics movement. They've dedicated their lives to enhance our efforts and educate the world about the accomplishments of individuals with intellectual disabilities," said Special Olympics Chairman International Timothy Shriver.
Drs. Berman and Perlman were awarded Special Spirit in China Awards of Excellence for their commitment to the Special Olympics movement for more than 10 years and since the inception of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes program.
Dr. Berman is a founder and Global Clinical Advisor for the Special Olympics-Lions Clubs International Opening Eyes program and Dr. Perlman is a founder and Global Clinical Advisor for Special Smiles, two Healthy Athletes disciplines providing free health screenings to Special Olympics athletes worldwide.
"Paul and Steve's dedication and leadership to Special Olympics and the Healthy Athletes program have provided invaluable health services for one of the most underserved and marginalized populations in the world--individuals with intellectual disabilities," said Dr. Stephen B. Corbin, senior vice president of Constituent Services at Special Olympics International. "They have been instrumental in the growth and success of the Healthy Athletes program which is essential to the health and well-being of Special Olympics athletes."
