Muhammad Continues to Spread Hope: This time to the people of Germany
Lord Mayor of Riesa, Germany, Wolfram Kohler's personal letter
October 2002

Dear Lonnie and Muhammad,

I would like to thank you again for your visit to our city. For many people it is still unbelievable that the world's greatest sportsman of the century came to Riesa.

Maybe you got a little impression of all the problems the city and its inhabitants have had over the last few years. You also had the chance to see how we work with courage and energy to solve these problems. Most importantly, your visit has encouraged the people here to fight for their city, and region against high unemployment, migration of the youth, and a better environment.

Your story of life makes plain that "the will can move mountains" (like a German proverb says), 
as the best boxer in the world or as human being.  Your performance in Riesa warrants the respect 
and admiration of us all.

It is very hard to bring into words the emotions of thousands of people who met you personally or saw you on TV. The tenor of all letters, e-mails, personal calls and conversations were the same. For many of them your visit was the most emotional moment in their lives.

We also got many reactions from people who also have Parkinson's. You have showed them that their lives are not over because of this disease, and that you can fight against it and create a new life.

I guess I can say that not only the people of Riesa want to say "thank you", but all the people in Germany and all over the world.

In the name of all the inhabitants of Riesa and all the fans of boxing I wish you even more power, spontaneity, wit and charm. But the most important thing I wish for you is health

Once again thank you and warm greetings from Riesa.

Wolfram Kohler