Celebrating Brianna Heitzman: A Champion of Inclusion and Advocate for All

Brianna wears a purple shirt and sits in her wheelchair smiling with tears in her eyes holding her award.

In a world that constantly strives for progress and equality, it is important to recognize individuals who dedicate themselves to advocating for the rights and inclusion of marginalized communities. Down Syndrome of Louisville (DSL) is proud to have an extraordinary employee, Brianna Heitzman, who has recently been honored with the prestigious Jim Chesser Award for Advocacy from KY APSE. This award, established in honor of the late Jim Chesser, a long-time self-advocate and friend of people with disabilities, recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of advocating for the full inclusion of people with disabilities, particularly in the realm of employment.

Brianna Heitzman has always been a beacon of inspiration and support for the individuals at DSL, empowering them to live their best lives through community engagement, employment opportunities, and independent living. Her dedication to teaching inclusion extends beyond the walls of the organization; she actively promotes inclusivity in her church, the community, and within DSL families. Brianna’s work goes beyond disability advocacy as she also tirelessly champions the rights of the unhoused and individuals with mental illness.

When COVID-19 struck in 2020, Brianna’s life took an unexpected turn. She contracted the virus and found herself battling for her life, enduring a coma, relying on a ventilator, and undergoing treatment with an Ecmo machine. During this incredibly challenging period, Brianna faced the unimaginable and had to come to terms with the loss of both legs at the knees and several fingertips. However, her spirit remained unbroken, and her determination shone through.

Brianna’s resilience and unwavering commitment to her mission are awe-inspiring. She has made a remarkable recovery and has since returned to work, continuing her advocacy efforts with even greater fervor. Through her personal journey, Brianna uses her story as a powerful tool to educate and inspire others, teaching them about overcoming obstacles and demonstrating that there is no limit to what one can achieve with the right mindset. Her testimonials at various community events have touched the hearts of many, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to hear her speak.

Brianna Heitzman stands as a true role model for her colleagues and the individuals she works with at DSL. Her dedication to the principles of inclusion and her unwavering advocacy efforts have earned her the admiration and respect of the community. Brianna not only talks the talk but also walks the walk, exemplifying the power of resilience and the strength that comes from supporting one another.

The Chesser Award for Advocacy could not have found a more deserving recipient than Brianna Heitzman. Her profound impact on the lives of people with disabilities, her relentless fight for their rights, and her commitment to creating a more inclusive society are exemplary. Brianna serves as a shining reminder that anyone, regardless of their abilities or personal circumstances, can contribute to the greater good and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Down Syndrome of Louisville extends its warmest congratulations to Brianna Heitzman for this well-deserved recognition. Her advocacy work serves as a guiding light for all, encouraging us to strive for a future where inclusivity, acceptance, and equal opportunities are the norm. Brianna’s unwavering dedication to the cause inspires us all to continue pushing for a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and fulfill their potential.


Similar Articles

DSL’s 2022 Youth Volunteer of the Year Continues to Shine Bright

  Down Syndrome of Louisville (DSL) proudly highlights the extraordinary contributions of one of our dedicated youth volunteers, Trisha Paily. Her impact extends far beyond the dance floor as she shares her love for dance by teaching “Bollywood” to DSL members, fostering an inclusive space for self-expression. Trisha’s recent solo recital not only showcased her […]

Read More

Welcome the New DSL Staff Members!

Please welcome our new team members, John Davies and Azariah Frazier! John is the new Engagement and Communications Manager at Down Syndrome of Louisville. With a background in media and 9 years of experience in radio broadcasting, get ready to ‘Boogie Down’ in 2024! When John’s not planning new and exciting events for DSL members, […]

Read More

Sensory-Friendly Santa at Down Syndrome of Louisville

Down Syndrome of Louisville recently organized a Sensory-Friendly Santa Event, offering families a uniquely inclusive holiday experience. Central to the event was the opportunity for families to enjoy personalized time with Santa. The one-on-one interactions allowed children to engage with Santa at their own pace, resulting in genuine smiles and unforgettable moments. The families also […]

Read More

Sharing the Gift of Kindness on Giving Tuesday

On #GivingTuesday, we joined together to support, educate, and advocate for individuals with Down syndrome and raised over $6,200! Thank you to our amazing community for your generous gift of kindness this holiday season – we are so grateful for you! Throughout the day on Giving Tuesday, we were able to share some of our […]

Read More

DSL Virtual Classes Codes

Be sure to check the DSL Calendar to view class schedules and other fun programming! When Academy in-person classes are canceled, please use the link below for all 3, one- hour virtual classes at 9am, 1pm and 3pm. Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/91005853724?pwd=UHQvV0xhNnIxUE45czFDNHFCMnpNZz09  Meeting ID: 910 0585 3724  Passcode: DSL  _____________________________________________________________ Mondays: Virtual Boogie Down Cooking […]

Read More

DSL on Seeing Ability Podcast

  DSL Parents, Tonya Shown and Danny Slaton, joined our Executive Director, Julie Torzewski, on the Seeing Ability Podcast this week to share about our amazing members and all that DSL does for our community. Check it out here!

Read More

DSL on Talk About Town Podcast

  Our very own Sam Roach, Julie Torzewski, and Tim Curtis were just on the Talk About Town podcast sharing about DSL and our amazing members! Check it out: https://fb.watch/o0KPiTy1AJ/

Read More

Ds Awareness Month – Meet Danny, Sammy, & Cammy

Meet our trio: Danny (9), Sammy (7), and Cammy (6)! Danny loves all kinds of music, fancy table settings, every cheese and chocolate known to man, hiking and exploring, building with legos, playing in sand or water, and swinging! He didn’t start to walk on his own until age 6, and now he is making […]

Read More

Virtual Cooking Class- Sushi Bake (AKA Crab Rangoon Bake)

DSL Chef level- easy (oven) Ingredients: Note: This is another recipe that is all dependent on your taste! You can add any sauces you like and have in your fridge. You can also add things like avocado, ginger, or even substitute crab for cooked salmon or tuna! 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice  (Optional) Few splashes […]

Read More

Meet Brandon Priest – Board Member

I have a big family. I am married with four kids. My oldest is Artem, then Silas, Jonah, and a foster daughter Justus (we refer to her as Lottie). My wife and I have been married for over 15 years. I have been involved with DSL off and on for about 12 years. When I […]

Read More

Ds Awareness Month – Meet Emily

  This is Emily she’s 7 yrs old.. she goes to 2nd grade Emily loves music, swimming she’s a little mermaid, loves to watch Disney channel, Loves spending time with her sister and cousins… Emily still working really hard with her teachers and therapists.. working on communication skills.. working on recognizing the letters of her […]

Read More

Ds Awareness Month – Meet Brystol

  Meet Brystol! This is Brystol Rae she is our little Ray of sunshine who just so happens to love the color yellow! She likes to calm down by watching Hey Bear! She enjoys laying on the ground playing with her toys and making people laugh with all her facial expressions. She’s always happy to […]

Read More
Translate our Site »