By Beckman
What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome is a condition where a person is born with an extra chromosome.
Down Syndrome is the most common genetic chromosomal disorder and cause of learning disabilities in children.
When I was born, along with having Down Syndrome, I was born with a hole in my heart.
Down Syndrome Misconceptions
Myth: People with Down Syndrome are always happy.
Truth: People with Down Syndrome have feelings like everyone else.
Myth: Adults with Down Syndrome are like children.
Truth: Adults with Down Syndrome should be treated like adults. They have the same thoughts and feelings as other adults. And enjoy being around other adults.
Myth: People with Down Syndrome can’t be active members of society.
Truth: People with Down Syndrome have jobs, hobbies and take part in other activities. They pursue education. They make meaningful contributions to society.
My jobs
I Have worked at a Funeral Home since I was 18 years old.
I open doors and greet people during visitations.
I like being able to care for other people.
I also work at Clothes Mentor.
I organize clothes by color and size.
I enjoy this job because I like clothes and interacting with my co-workers.
College
I am a sophomore at Jefferson Community and Technical College, in a program called College Connection.
I’ve learned about how to apply for jobs, how to do interviews and proper study habits. This year, I’m taking classes on acting, art, music and science.
Talents
I enjoy singing and have taken part in the Down Syndrome of Louisville Talent Show for the past four years.
I’m a big fan of musicals, and in the talent show, I sung songs from “Les Miserables,” “Aladdin” and “Hamilton.”
I also like to dance. I danced to “Beauty and the Beast.”
Friends
I enjoy hanging out with my boyfriend, Lucas, and my friends.
I also like reading books, being in plays, playing kickball, bowling and going to the movies.
In this photo, I’m in “Cinderella,” a play done at my church.
Down Syndrome of Louisville
I am also active at Down Syndrome of Louisville.
I attend many events with them and go to Life Skills and Steps to Independence classes.
I learn about cooking, being nice to others, communication skills, how to travel, different languages, shopping and more.
I also meet a tutor, Emily, every Thursday.
We work on math, reading, money counting and spelling.
We are reading, “Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events.” We also read “Annie,” “Swiss Family Robinson,” “Rip Van Winkle” and “Little Women.”
I will also go to plays with Emily. This is us at “Oliver” at JCC’s Centerstage.
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