What a strange question! If you ask what purpose does the Paralympics serve, can you then tell us what purpose the actual Olympics itself serve?

If I was handicapped which thankfully I'm not, I would love to have the chance to compete and represent my nation! It's not about the purpose it's about the belief that just because someone has a handicap that they cannot compete as a normally fully able body can!
Being a fan of sports, I for one will be watching.

Kudos to all athletes who braves the big stage!