WEST ORANGE, NJ -- (Marketwire) -- 03/19/12 -- To share the message that the 54 million Americans with disabilities have abilities, Kessler Foundation released public service announcements (PSAs), featuring Eric LeGrand and John Larroquette. The Foundation invites people to tell stories of their abilities on its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/KesslerFoundation). In June, Kessler Foundation will feature these "Abilities" stories on its homepage at KesslerFoundation.org.
"People with disabilities represent the largest minority group in the nation," said Rodger DeRose, president and chief executive officer of Kessler Foundation. "These are extremely talented individuals who are often marginalized because of what people think they can't do instead of what they can do. At Kessler Foundation, we understand that everyone has limitations, but we find ways to compensate and discover new abilities. Eric is the perfect example of what it is possible to achieve despite a disability."
LeGrand was playing football for Rutgers University when he was severely injured on a tackle in 2010. Paralyzed from the chest down, LeGrand is working to regain his strength and mobility. Unable to play football, he concentrates on his abilities. He has returned to college and is pursuing his passion for sports by training for a career in sports broadcasting. LeGrand also speaks to children and adults about developing their abilities and following their dreams.
Larroquette, a Tony and five-time Emmy Award-winning actor, was inspired to join Kessler Foundation's campaign through his friend, actor Daryl "Chill" Mitchell, the star of Kessler Foundation's 2011 PSAs. Mitchell, who has used a wheelchair since he was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident, has developed his abilities by adding producing, directing and disability advocacy to his resume.
The PSAs will be seen on televisions across the U.S. beginning in March.
About Kessler Foundation
Kessler Foundation, the largest public charity in the field of disability, conducts rehabilitation research in mobility and cognition that advances the care of people with multiple sclerosis, brain injury, stroke and spinal cord injury. Kessler Foundation Program Center fosters new approaches to the persistently high rates of unemployment among people disabled by injury or disease. Targeted grant making funds promising programs across the nation.
Find us at KesslerFoundation.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
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Contacts:
Lauren Scrivo
973.324.8384
973.768.6583 - c
LScrivo@KesslerFoundation.org
Carolann Murphy
973.324.8382
CMurphy@KesslerFoundation.org
