Military Special Needs Network
Proudly Supporting all Military Families with a Special Needs Dependent
Down Syndrome – Surpassing Expectations
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month and I wanted to share stories of those who have gone above and beyond what society in general may believe awaits for adults with Down Syndrome. These adults are living their dreams, achieving success, and surpassing expectations.
Alexis Malloy is a 21 year old business owner. That fact in itself is unique and impressive. Add to the fact that she has Down Syndrome, and you have something inspiring. The owner of AJ Special Services, Alexis provides copying, scanning and envelope stuffing services in the New Berlin, Wisconsin, area. Click HERE to read more, courtesy of the “New Berlin Now.”
It’s important to read books about specific disabilities written by the so-called experts. But, when possible, it’s even more important to read and hear the words of self-advocates themselves. Jason Kingsley and Mitchell Levitz are two authors with Down Syndrome. Together they have written the book, “Count Us In: Growing Up With Down Syndrome.” The book is written conversation-style and covers a myriad of topics. These two men are not only published authors, they are, individually, advocates for their DS community. Read more HERE.
I forget what the odds are, but I think I read one time that you have a better chance of getting struck by lightening while being eaten by a shark than having a child become a professional athlete. Obviously those already astronomical odds decrease dramatically when you add special needs. But sometimes, sometimes, those in the power positions reach out to our communities and make dreams happen. That was the case for Joey Moss when Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky recommended him for the job as the locker room attendant for the Edmonton Oilers, a professional hockey team in Canada. Moss‘s dedication and devotion to his beloved Oilers is reciprocated by his entire team. Check out this great story on the National Hockey League website.
All of my artistic talent can be housed in my pinky. I’m always in awe of those who have been visited by their muse. The beautiful pottery created by Christian Royal leaves me nearly without words. Nearly! Gorgeous pieces from a young man with Down Syndrome, an incredible body of work, and amazing achievement in the art world are just incredible. Visit his website to learn about Christian, view his work, and see the press surrounding this young artist. Visit http://www.ChristianRoyalPottery.com.
If you know of an adult with disabilities, shredding stereotypes and surpassing expectations, please let us know. We want to share in their success and spread the inspiration!
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