by Jennifer Davis from FOX5 myFOXDC.com:
BURKE, Va. -
The family of a local advocate for individuals with Down syndrome is speaking out about his unexpected death and the amazing difference he made helping young people with disabilities nationwide save money for the future.
Before he passed away last month, Stephen Beck Jr. of Burke, Va., succeeded in getting the first piece of legislation affecting people with disabilities through Congress in 25 years.
Eight years ago, Beck sat down at his living room table with some other parents to brainstorm a plan to help their children, including his own daughter, Natalie -- now 15 years old. They wanted a way to help their children save for the future.
Natalie has Down syndrome and Beck was worried because federal law only allowed for $2,000 to be set aside for her long-term support.
"You cannot have more than $2,000 in name or assets or you lose your benefits," his widow Catherine Beck explains. "So individuals with challenges cannot save for their future. Their families can't invest in them to secure their future."
