SPIRIT MAKES A MAN

All we disabled want is a chance to compete without further handicaps,"" Dr. Panzarella said, accepting his award from Rosalyn Carter as handicapped American of the year. And it is dear from this guileless, inspiring autobiography that Joe's life, despite slow paralysis from multiple sclerosis, exemplifies that desire. When Panzarella's symptoms appeared as he was completing medical school, he switched from gynecology to anaesthesiology in view of the prognosis, then turned to rehabilitative medicine when administering anaesthesia became problematic. He and wife Jo raised six children, adjusted the house to his changing needs, and maintained their faith and mutual devotion. No complaints, no regrets, just memories of obstacles overcome and one tragic chapter--son Jeffrey, following his father's ambulance, killed in an accident. Joe tells his story easily, recalling childhood hijinks with cousin Russ and other large-family anecdotes, scanting his professional achievements but never neglecting wife Jo's central role in his happiness and success. Winning indeed.