A Reason To Celebrate

Back in May, I shared the good news that this year would be the last year the Jerry Lewis would host his annual pity party on Labor Day weekend, better known as the MDA Telethon.

Those of you who have been long time readers of my blog know how I feel about Mr. Lewis and his attitude and beliefs about people with disabilities.

Well, now the news is even better! Jerry Lewis is OUT completely! The MDA announced at the end of last week that Jerry Lewis would not be returning this year or any time in the future. No reason was given for this decision, but I like to hope that the voices of people with disabilities helped make this decision.

To check out my past writing on this subject, you can check here and here, and as I said before, good bye and good riddance, Mr. Lewis.

Good Bye and Good Riddance

(picture courtesy of Steve Marcus, Associated Press)


I read some good news today – Jerry Lewis’s annual pity party – excuse me, telethon – is only going to last 6 hours this year, not the normal 21 ½ hours. Then I read even better news – this will be Jerry’s last year for the telethon.

I wrote last year about some of the abhorrent comments made by Mr. Lewis, and about my opinions on those comments.

My opinions on this panderer of pity have not changed in the least. My children need to be accepted and included regardless of their disability. It is well past time for social change, not more money grubbing in the name of pity.

I’m all for research for cures and prevention, but I don’t believe you have to parade a bunch of ‘Jerry’s kids’ in front of the world to seek money for that research.

As Mr. Lewis shared on the CBS Sunday Morning Show on May 20, 2001, "Pity? You don't want to be pitied because you're a cripple in a wheelchair? Stay in your house!"

Sorry Jerry, we will not be staying in our houses and we don’t want your pity.

Good bye and good riddance.