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Games turn Olympian's life around

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Games turn Olympians life around

Abu Dhabi - The former international global messenger of the Games said taking part in the Special Olympics transformed her daughter's life.

by

Ashwani Kumar
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Published: Thu 14 Mar 2019, 1:36 PM

Last updated: Thu 14 Mar 2019, 3:39 PM

For Fatma Sakr, the Special Olympics is a miracle cure for her daughter Dina Galal, the former international global messenger of the Games.
Fatma said taking part in the Special Olympics transformed Dina's life.
"Dina was born in 1970 in Egypt and, back then, we had no information about people with disabilities. We just knew that they are not going to live long, and can't be trained and educated. The books said such kids will die by 17 years of age. Our life was filled with despair. But with love and will power, and especially through the Special Olympics, Dina succeeded in her life. Special Olympics did the miracle," Fatma said at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, one of the venues for the Games.
Fatma said it was the members of the Special Olympics who found the hidden talent in Dina.
"She was put in special school. Members of the Special Olympics came to the school and asked her to try shot put. She took part and won medals in all events. She won abroad, too. She was later picked as the global messenger. Special Olympics didn't just change her life but everyone in the family."
And now Dina has written a book, 'Dina speaking about herself', which is being launched in the UAE during the Games.
"This is my story. I hope this will help create more awareness," Dina said.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

Ashwani Kumar

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