Living with Down syndrome doesn’t mean you can’t be anything you want to be. Don’t take it from me; just look at the incredible, inspiring stories of these 10 people who are crushing stereotypes and breaking down barriers for people with Down syndrome who, once upon a time, were left on the sidelines. Now, thanks to their example, society is able to see people with Down syndrome modeling, acting, running restaurants, making incredible art and serving their communities.
Here, the beautiful Madeline Stuart shows off her grace and flexibility in a dance rehearsal. The 18-year-old Australian model wants to “make the world a better place” by showing the world just how beautiful Down syndrome can be.
This post was sponsored by Born This Way.
Tommy Jessop
British actor and dancer Tommy Jessop has starred on TV and radio, in movies and documentaries and onstage.
Connie-Rose Seabourne
Connie-Rose Seabourne is a child model with a “cheeky smile” who also happens to have Down syndrome.
Melissa Reilly
Melissa Reilly is a champion Special Olympian and public speaker who also interned for her state Senate office.
Megan Bomgaars
Bomgaars is an inspirational public speaker and also started her own clothing business. The clothing line, Megology, offers a wide variety of beautiful, hand-dyed clothing items as well as several brightly colored accessories.
Bernadette Resha
Bernadette Resha is an artist from Nashville whose work has garnered international attention and acclaim.
Tim Harris
Tim Harris didn’t let Down syndrome hold him back from fulfilling his dream of owning his own restaurant, Tim’s Place in Albuquerque, serving breakfast, lunch and hugs.
Jenny Hatch
Jenny Hatch is a hero who sued and won the right to make her own decisions. The Jenny Hatch Justice Project now works to win independence for other people just like her.
Lauren Potter
Lauren Potter is a successful actress, best known for her role as Becky Jackson on Glee.
Robert Lewis
Robert Lewis is a Nashville teen who became a local sports hero when the basketball team for which he served as manager called him in, and he drained a buzzer-beating, three-point shot.
Jamie Brewer
Jamie Brewer isn’t familiar just from her role on American Horror Story; she also became the first model with Down syndrome to walk in New York Fashion Week.
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