World Games Updates

Changing the World through Music

What could be more appropriate than having the musical group, FLAME, perform at the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho? After all, the group got the inspiration for its name from the Olympic Flame. But even more inspirational is that the 11-member rock band – including vocals, guitar, bass, drums, percussion and dancers – from Fulton County, New York, USA, is composed of people with developmental/physical disabilities.

What’s more, they’re hot! The group can perform more than 100 songs, ranging from Pink Floyd to Gershwin, and the crowds at sold-out shows in seven U.S. states and across New York give them rave reviews. The band also has appeared on television, and their songs have been played by radio stations.

FLAME got its start in 2003 from a recreation program at Lexington. The plan was to have the band play around town. Word spread and requests for hire began pouring in; FLAME now averages more than 90 paid performances per year. With two strong selling CDs and a full tour schedule, FLAME has made the transition from local band to a regional act in high demand.

Parents who have children with disabilities are often overcome with emotion watching FLAME. The band gives them hope that their child can achieve great things and, even more importantly, have a fun, fulfilling life.

FLAME wants to change the world through music. They are a phenomenon that inspires people and changes the way the general public view people with disabilities.

FLAME wasn’t the only inspirational performer at the World Games Opening Ceremony. Sujeet Desai, an accomplished musician who plays six instruments, played Mozart on the saxophone and earned the praise of fellow performer Kenny G.

With his musical versatility Desai has become a role model and has brought inspiration and hope to individuals with disabilities, their families, friends and the community. His mission is to send a message across the world that, given opportunities to showcase their abilities, individuals with disabilities can “make it happen.”

In addition to his musical talent, Desai also has a 2nd degree black belt in martial arts and is an accomplished Special Olympics athlete. At the 1999 Special Olympics World Games he won gold and silver medals in swimming. He also has won numerous medals in Alpine skiing, cross-country running and bowling.

In July 2006, Desai married Carrie Bergeron. They live together in an apartment and enjoy living independently. The couple has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Time magazine, and on television shows including “The View,” “20/20,” and “Oprah Winfrey.”