When I Attended the NDSS Leadership Summit to End 'Law Syndrome'

As you all know October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and what a month it was. From celebrating amazing individuals like my son, who are rocking an extra 21st chromosome, to advocating for their rights with the National Down Syndrome Society at the first Leadership Summit. There were over 150 self-advocates like David DeSanctis, actor from “Where Hope Grows,” to Collette DiVitto from the famous Boston cookie company, parents and many more.

During the first three days of October, I was invited along with self-advocates, ambassadors and leaders all over the country to spread awareness and announce the new legislative campaign aimed at breaking down barriers to employment for all individuals with Down syndrome, called “Law Syndrome.”

As we traveled to our nation’s capital, we had a full schedule of learning about leadership in Gettysburg, tour the Capital building and then meeting our state and congressional representatives to share with them the laws we would like them to support.It was a whirlwind few days and I have to say I was exhausted, but it was an amazing experience doing what I love: advocating.

I met so many new friends and learned so much, I hope to do it again.

This post was written by Marla Murasko. It is published by the National Down Syndrome Society.

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