Dear Friend, Think about the last time you reached for the cellular phone, took a drink of water, shook the hand of an acquaintance, or felt the warmth of a loved one. For most of us, these go without thought; we take these actions for granted. But for a group of special people, these acts are extraordinary accomplishments.

To some people, those who suffer disabling injuries while engaged in sports-related activities are merely a statistic. But to those directly involved, paralytic injuries are catastrophic. I know first hand. I experienced this when my son was paralyzed many years ago.

Missouri K.I.D.S. was founded to provide assistance to young people and their families. We help with the special equipment and counseling needed to make adjustments and lifestyle changes that follow a variety of injuries. The kind of help we provide is not available through an insurance program or another organization.

We would like to help all those who are in need, but we are limited without your support. Take a moment to consider the simple movements and tasks that you take for granted. Catastrophic accidents can happen to anyone. Please help Missouri K.I.D.S. help these young people. Your generous contribution will be a benefit to someone who needs your assistance desperately.

Sincerely, Gary. N. Shaw President