DSL Members Selected to Participate in Kentucky Derby Festival Fashion Show

Down Syndrome of Louisville Members Selected to Participate in Kentucky Derby Festival Spring Fashion Show
Bridget Matsen and Madeline Franklin will be walking the runway on Thursday, March 31


LOUISVILLE, Ky. (March 30, 2022) – 
Two Down Syndrome of Louisville members will participate in the 2022 Kentucky Derby Festival (KDF) Spring Fashion Show Presented by Macy’s – the premiere show that reveals the latest fashion trends for the Kentucky Derby season. Bridget Matsen has been selected as the KDF Macy’s Spring Fashion Show Makeover recipient, and Madeline Franklin has been cast as one of the runway models. The show is Thursday, March 31, at 5:30 p.m. at Caesars Southern Indiana.

“We are overjoyed to see the Kentucky Derby Festival’s wonderful inclusion efforts in their spring fashion show this year,” said Julie Torzewski, Executive Director of Down Syndrome of Louisville. “Our members are so excited to be involved in this show and celebrate the Kentucky Derby season. Thank you to KDF for embracing our members and giving them the confidence that they can do anything that others can do.”

23-year-old Bridget Matsen will receive a makeover from J Michael’s Spa and Salon, sponsored by KDF, that includes a manicure and pedicure, a facial, a wardrobe fitting at Macy’s Oxmoor, and hair and makeup styling on the day of the show. She was nominated for this award by Down Syndrome of Louisville because of her dedicated contributions to the organization. Following her makeover, she will be walking the runway in the fashion show.

Bridget is described by her peers as “strong, sweet, and fun.” She enjoys spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and playing the drums. She also works in retail and participates in Special Olympics in Oldham County, where she plays basketball for The Vipers and swims for the Marlins Swim Team.

21-year-old Madeline Franklin will also participate in the fashion show. Madeline was selected from a general casting call hosted by Heyman Talent and KDF and says she is thrilled to model for this show. She says she loves her looks for the show and is excited to walk the runway and add it to her portfolio.

Madeline enjoys dancing and performs with the Miracle Dancers from Diane Moore Dance Academy. When she’s not busy dancing or being Dolly Parton’s biggest fan, Madeline attends the University of Louisville’s Providing Access to Community Transition (PACT) program, a free program that helps young adults with mild to severe physical and mental disabilities complete high school and gain college experience.

KDF Spring Fashion Show attendees must be 21 or over to attend the show. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. with boutique shopping and cocktails, dinner at 7 p.m., and the fashion show at 8 p.m., where guests can see Bridget and Madeline take the stage. The show is presented by Macy’s, and contributing sponsors include Caesars Southern Indiana, GUESS?, Inc., J Michael’s Salon and Spa, and Radley London.

To learn more about the KDF Spring Fashion Show, visit www.discover.kdf.org/spring-fashion-show/.


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