Most inspirational woman in Europe
“Rita has made Malta proud,” said MEP David Casa when meeting with Rita Vella at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Ms Vella took part in a competition in which she was selected as one of the most inspirational women in Europe. She will now feature in a calendar along with another 11 European women.
She suffers from muscular dystrophy, a disease which has rendered her incapable of moving most of her body.
“It was not easy for her to get here. It is most unfortunate that facilities for persons with disabilities are not sufficiently catered for. This makes every day activities that most of us take for granted a great challenge for individuals such as Rita,” said Mr Casa.
In order to reach Brussels, Rita was forced to travel overland on a journey that lasted four days since airlines are not properly equipped to cater for persons with physical disabilities, making air travel particularly burdensome.
“Rita chairs the Muscular Dystrophy Group and has devoted her life to improving the lives of others. She contributes greatly to society and truly is an inspiration to all of us,” said Mr Casa.
Following her success in the competition organised by the European Institute for Gender Equality and her subsequent visit to the Belgian capital, Ms Vella will commence the four-day journey back to Malta.
Source Article:
The Malta Independent Online
11/12/2010