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Big news this week wasn't just about the Republican National Convention or Hurricane Isaac. The 2012 Paralympics began in London on Thursday.
In England, the Paralympics are getting just as much TV coverage as the Olympics - 500 hours. But, as the Guardian reports, the U.S. and France are taking a far different approach to these games than they did to the earlier ones. "NBC is rationing its audience to exactly five hours of Paralympic competition, none of it transmitted live, perhaps influenced by the memory of the US team's third place in the 2008 medals table, behind China and Great Britain. Even in France the live coverage is restricted to an obscure cable channel, while mainstream TV opts for a midnight highlights package."
The dearth of coverage in France has sparked outrage among that country's parathletes, while reaction in the US hasn't been as strong.
But, think about it.
The opening ceremony was every bit as spectacular as the Olympics.
These games could arguably be even more inspiring than the Olympics.
For instance, veterans make up 10% of Team USA.
Or consider this: Volleyball player Martine Wright will be competing seven years after losing both of her legs in a terrorist attack.
Navy Lt. Bradley Snyder, blinded by a homemade bomb in Afghanistan last September, will be swimming for gold on the anniversary of his injury.
Seriously, how can we not be watching these games?
So, find out - who in your community is paying attention to the 2012 Paralympics? Check in with veterans groups and schools. Are there parathletes in your area - are they watching? Are they inspired?
Share some of the incredible athlete's stories and ask readers - would they like to see more of the Paralymplics?
