The 81st Academy Awards - Special award to my hero- JERRY LEWIS

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Watching the Oscar awards function on 22nd Feb 2009 i was thrilled when the world famous comedian, Jerry Lewis, was awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian award for his dedication and commitment to the cause of Muscular Dystrophy patients in USA.He formed the Muscular Dystrophy Association(MDA) of America over 50 years ago, an organisation of doctors, researchers and therapists who conducted research into the many types of Dystrophies known to exist at present. After his premature retirement from Hollywood Jerry Lewis concentrated all his energies and efforts into making the presence of his organisation felt all over the world.Today MDA has many branches in different countries where patients can find out the latest news about this disease which has entrapped thousands of people all over the world making them helplessly disabled and dependant on others. Being a patient of MD myself, i happened to get in touch with the New York branch of MDA in 1983 and received a wealth of information about muscular dystrophy. I was very excited to know that Jerry Lewis, who was my favourite actor was the founder and central figure of MDA. I eventually went to New York in 1983 through MDA and was fortunate to consult one of the specialist doctors on their panel. Unfortunately knowing that there was no cure i received treatment in physiotheraphy which i am continuing at present. I am on a wheelchair and dependant on others but better equipped to deal with my ailment thanks to Jerry and his dedicated bunch at the MDA. I had also requested a meeting with my idol but he was away in California and so i could not meet him but the MDA was kind enough to give me several autographed photographs of this great actor and human being. Jerry, you will always occupy a special place in my heart.