Able! So Drop the “DIS”

Mutassem – First Arab male amputee to reach the Kilimanjaro summit
Khalil – First certified Arab double amputee diver (Photo Credit: Ali Bin Thaleth)
Youssef – Single Amputee Rider
Omar – Swimmer / Track and Field, Palestine team
Uday – Single Amputee Surfer

Who are you calling disabled? Certainly not these young men and women. They know they can do anything despite missing limbs. They have chosen not to accept their community’s perceptions of physical disability. And four years ago, they started a journey toward changing those views, knowing others would follow.

They were supported by volunteers and the UAE chapter of the PCRF whose fitness campaigns allowed them to hone their strengths. When given this opportunity, Youssef, Omar, Khalil, Uday and others rose to the challenge, showing the world they are not disabled patients but heroes.

What started out as an initiative with one charity has turned into a movement spread across several organizations. So the next time you see someone in a wheelchair, think of the Arabic saying, “Everyone with a disability is mighty and can do wonders.” Don’t feel sorry for him or her; think instead of how you can empower each one of them to be a hero.

For more info – www.pcrf.net