World Leader

Her warm kindness, genuine compassion and stalwart activism earned her countless admirers around the world, including myself and many others here at the United Nations.

Today, thanks to Eunice and countless other dedicated individuals she inspired, Special Olympics serves over 3 million athletes with intellectual disabilities in every corner of the globe.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was a visionary who founded the Special Olympics and devoted her life to creating a better and more inclusive world for people with disability.

The success and growth of the Special Olympics is a fitting legacy.

Our deepest sympathies to both your families and Special Olympics at this difficult time.

But above all, she will be remembered as the founder of the Special Olympics, as a champion for people with intellectual disabilities, and as an extraordinary woman who, as much as anyone, taught our nation - and our world - that no physical or mental barrier can restrain the power of the human spirit.

I can honestly say that her commitment to Special Olympics has inspired many people myself included.

It has given countless individuals with intellectual disabilities a chance to shine, and their success has inspired a fundamental change in our society's attitudes.

I thank Eunice Shriver for her vision to start the Special Olympics and for her drive to ensure the success of the movement.