Wheelchair basketball: When disability was no different from ability

It was the perfect setting for a wheelchair basketball match – the sun was shining, the court was sparkling and the teams were raring to show off some monster slam-dunk moves. Clearly, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December) was a big occasion at the physical rehabilitation centre in Eastern Shan's Kyaing Tong town that is run by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Ministry of Health and Sports (MoHS).

As an excited crowd gathered at the centre to witness a memorable wheelchair basketball clash, the participants soaked in the excitement. The teams comprised of both people with and without disabilities, including the ICRC staff.

The event aimed at encouraging a better understanding of people with disabilities, keeping in view this year's theme "Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality".

First observed in 1992, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated across the world. Events are organized with the aim of not only removing the stigma surrounding disability, but also celebrating the achievements of people who defy all odds to emerge victorious.

The event, which was a great success, was organized in association with the Myanmar Red Cross Society, MoHS and the Department of Social Welfare.