Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Can You Name a True Hero?

I just finished formatting a book for a client that was on self help, and overcoming life's burdens. That made me start thinking about heroes. Then, I found the story of this woman: Nancy Burpee, a world class paralympic swimmer.

Burpee was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, EDS, in 1995. Still, Ms. Burpee set world records in the 50 and 100 yard freestyle at the trails.

In 2004, she was preparing for the 2004 Paralympic Games held in Athens, Greece. At the Paralympic trials, Ms Burpee was disqualified by an Australian referee based on a procedural technicality.

Ms Burpee telephoned Kenvie P. Simmons, a member of the New York Legal offices of Simmon, Jannace & Stagg. Ms. Burpee asked the firm to commence an action against the United States Olympic Committee. The firm agreed to take the case, pro bono, and commenced arbitration under the United States Olympic Committee Rules. They collected live testimony from swim referees in Canada and Australia. Simmons, Jannace & Stagg argued that the Australian referee made comments that indicated she/he did not want Ms. Burpee competing against an Australian paralympic swimmer.

simmons, jannace & stagg demonstrated that the United States Paralympic swim trials were not held in accordance with the paralympic rules. The legal team presented a world-class case, never faltering. Despite these efforts, an independent arbitrator ruled against Ms. Burpee and declined to force the United States Olympic Committee to name her to the Olympic Paralympic Team.

Notwithstanding, Ms. Burpee has continued her swim career and will compete in the World Championships in the upcoming year. Not only did she overcome the disease and hardships, but she stood up for herself, overcame disappointment, and continued to fight. That is a hero.

A Hero Can Be Found Anywhere


Good New York Lawyers

I visited the web site of simmons jannace & stagg. I was impressed that this law firm would take the case pro bono. It puts a positive twist on the stereotype of large legal firms.

It is good to know that there are lawyers out there who will take up the battle for those of us who cannot.


1 comment:

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