Over the last two days, Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® conducted over 700 free health screenings for athletes and Unified partners participating in the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup, Paris 2026.
Based at Salle Pierre Charpy inside Charléty Stadium, the players participated in free health screenings across three different disciplines. Fit Feet (podiatry), Healthy Hearing (audiology), and Special Olympics Lions Clubs International Foundation Opening Eyes® (vision care). Each of these disciplines play a crucial role in ensuring Special Olympics athletes have access to the care they need to thrive both on and off the field.
“Thanks to the dedication of 120 healthcare professionals and students, we delivered comprehensive health screenings and vital wellness education to our athletes and partners. Together, we powered through over 700 screenings. The impact was life-changing: 91 prescription glasses were custom-fitted through Opening Eyes, and athletes walked away with brand-new sneakers, sunglasses, and the essential self-care resources they need to thrive.”, shared Bjoern Koehler, Senior Director, Health Programming, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia and Global Opening Eyes.
“This success wouldn't have been possible without our partners. A big thank you to the Local Organizing Committee, Special Olympics France, and our visionary global health partners: the Golisano Foundation, Lions Clubs International Foundation, Safilo, and the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation. Together, we are changing lives and championing a healthier, more inclusive world!”, he added.
