Michael Phelps is back in the spotlight, this time for his work beyond the swimming pool. The Ruderman Family Foundation in Boston, known for its efforts to expand opportunities for people with disabilities, announced on Tuesday that the Olympic champion will receive the fifth annual Morton E. Ruderman Award in Inclusion.
The foundation told The Associated Press that they chose the most decorated swimmer of all time to honor his advocacy for individuals with disabilities and his openness about his mental health journey. Phelps has been transparent about his struggles with depression and recently partnered with Talkspace, a platform offering online therapy for those facing similar challenges.
Phelps emphasized that helping people overcome difficult times in their lives is more significant than winning gold medals. He expressed gratitude to the Ruderman Family Foundation for their ongoing efforts to reduce the shame and stigma associated with mental illness.
“By working together, we can normalize discussions about mental health and acknowledge the unique contributions every individual can make to our world, regardless of mental health status,” Phelps stated. The organization is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Previous recipients of this award include Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin and former Democratic U.S. Senator Tom Harkin, a key figure in the Americans with Disabilities Act. Jay Ruderman, the foundation’s president, praised Phelps for reaching out to those in need.
Ruderman described Phelps as a trailblazer in mental health awareness. Since retiring after the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, Phelps has actively campaigned for the importance of mental health alongside physical health. He also served as the honorary chairman for the National Mental Health Awareness Day organized by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
