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Paralympic Games Show All Athletes Can Be Champions

Today, the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games open in Vancouver and celebrate spirit in motion. Athletes with disabilities from around the world will meet to compete, inspiring and exciting the world with their performances always moving forward and never giving up. These athletes remind us that when we work hard, we can achieve our dreams. We can all be sports champions.

As Paralympic-level athletes, we were proud to compete with some of the best athletes in the world - we pushed our limits and had fun too. But you don't need to be an Olympian to get moving.

An important part of Let's Move! is helping kids to stay physically active and making sure they have a healthy, balanced diet. Children need physical activity to be healthy and strong. Being active can seem like a challenging goal, but it starts with finding an activity that you enjoy and making it a part of your routine.

It can be as simple as playing ball or finding an adaptive sport like sled hockey or mono-skiing that's right for you. If you have a disability, there is adaptive equipment available that can help you play the sports you love. Parents can also play an important role by being active together with their children. Find a physical activity that the entire family can enjoy.

Being active is good for you, and it's fun. So let's get moving!

Peter Axelson is a world champion mono-skier

Manny Guerra is a Paralympic gold medalist in sled hockey