I am not into sports. But I love hearing about athletes who use their platform to raise awareness and money for people with disabilities. Being a parent of a child with Down syndrome, I believe the personal stories from these athletes, who have a wide reach and recognition, help bring acceptance and show my kids how common families like ours are.
My husband, on the other hand, loves sports. He loves finding out he has something in common with his favorite athletes. But mainly, he says athletes play a big role in bringing attention to necessary issues, so when they love someone with a disability, it helps bring positive attention and combats the stigma surrounding “the Down’s kid.”
Here are some professional athletes who love someone with Down syndrome.