A STATEMENT FROM MDA PRESIDENT ROBERT M. BENNETT ON A RECENT REMARK BY JERRY LEWIS

TUCSON, Ariz., June 1, 2001 - The Muscular Dystrophy Association has a 50-year history of providing support to people with neuromuscular diseases. This takes many forms, including medical care, support groups, summer camps for children, and assistance with the purchase of wheelchairs and braces. However, one of the areas of our work of which we are the most proud is our support of equal rights and dignity for all people with disabilities.

It's for this reason that the MDA Board of Directors and all of us at the Association are deeply disturbed by a comment made by our national chairman, Jerry Lewis, during a recent television interview. I wish to make it perfectly clear that his comment does not reflect the views of MDA or its leadership. In fact, our displeasure has been communicated directly to Mr. Lewis, who admits to having expressed himself poorly and has offered his deepest apologies. He also has stated that it was not his intention to say anything to demean those with disabilities. Mr. Lewis understands that, however genuine and heartfelt his apology, as MDA's national chairman he has a responsibility to accurately reflect the Association's longstanding respect for those with disabilities and its commitment to improving their lives.

On behalf of MDA and its Board of Directors, I wish to add our apology to that of Jerry Lewis. I also want all those we serve to know that we will not only continue, but will redouble our efforts, to provide help today through services, and hope for tomorrow through worldwide research seeking treatments and cures for neuromuscular diseases. With continued support from a generous American public, I know our shared dream will come true.