The last dance: Though her recital days are over, dancing allows graduate with Down syndrome to be one of the girls

by Britteny McNamara from Wicked Local Walpole:
On stage, Allie Iannoni gets her wings. Dancing tap and jazz, Iannoni’s eyes light up, she becomes confident, and her differences float away.

The fact that Iannoni has Down’s Syndrome doesn’t matter, all that matters is that she hits her mark, which she always does.

Iannoni has danced at K and M Studios in Norwood for 10 years now, and with her 21st birthday approaching next month she has recently aged out of the program. At her final recital last Saturday, Allie, of Walpole, said she was happy to perform with her friends, but sad to see the end of an era.

Up on the Westwood High School stage, Iannoni performed three numbers, one tap, one jazz and a final senior dance. Her father Joseph Iannoni said the senior dance was her best performance yet.

"I really loved to dance," Iannoni said. "I like being on stage, I like when people clap for me."

The final performance was a series of three recitals, one in the morning, one in the afternoon and one at night. With her dad in the audience for all three, Iannoni said she had a lot of fun.

Dancing away differences: Event draws awareness to Down Syndrome, other disabilities

by Mike Landis and Robin Yancey from KY3:
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -

Shuffling their feet to the beat, kids (and kids at heart) demonstrated their dance moves.

“The kids- they are dancers. I mean, that is the one thing that everybody always says about individuals with Down Syndrome…they can boogie,’ exclaimed Gretchen Miekley, Executive Director of Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks.  The organization hosted a special ‘Spring Fling’ dance Friday night for individuals and families affected by Down Syndrome and other disabilities.

Down Syndrome, a developmental disorder, creates special hurdles for those like Khia Grey.

“I like going out and having a fun time with my friends,” she stated.

The event was a chance people with disabilities to forget about their challenges, and instead concentrate on being a kid.

A very special performer shines at Dixie's Got Talent

Story and photos by Cami Cox

Tonight, 19-year-old Madi Sonju fulfills a dream as she joins the contestants of Dixie’s Got Talent, competing for top honors in this annual talent competition. Madi, who will be performing a dance to the song “Let it Go” from “Frozen,” has unique talents that have landed her in the DGT finals along with 23 other acts – but Madi stands apart from her competitors in that she was born with Down syndrome.

But nothing stops this irrepressible young woman from achieving her goals – whether it’s competing in the Special Olympics, becoming a member of her high school cheerleading squad, being crowned homecoming queen or competing in Southern Utah’s biggest talent competition.

“This was Madi’s dream and she made it happen,” said her mom, Leslye Sonju.

Madi attended last year’s Dixie’s Got Talent competition with her family, and she was so entranced by the show that she made up her mind she would be onstage this year – not just in the audience. So she watched all year for posters to go up announcing the 2014 auditions. When they finally did, Madi took a photo of the poster with her cell phone and immediately sent it to her mom.

“She asked me every day: ‘Did you call? Did you call? Did you call?’” Leslye Sonju said.

Madi went through the audition process and made it all the way. Tonight, she’ll show the local audience just what she can do.

“I’m very, very excited,” Madi said.

NDSC Convention Schedule, Saturday, July 20, 2013

This is a summary of events for Saturday, July 20, 2013 at the NDSC Annual Convention in Denver, CO.

7:30AM - 3:00PM Registration Open

8:00AM - 6:00PM Exhibits Open

7:30AM - 12:30PM Kids' Camp Session 3

8:00AM - 5:15PM Youth & Adult Conference (lunch break 12:00PM - 1:30PM)

8:00AM - 5:15PM Brothers & Sisters Conference (lunch included)

8:30AM - 10:00AM Workshops

10:30AM - 12:00PM Workshops

12:00PM - 1:30PM Lunch on your own

12:15M - 5:00PM Film Festival

1:15PM - 5:15PM Kids' Camp Session 4

1:30PM - 3:00PM General Session

3:30PM - 5:00PM Workshops

5:30PM - 6:00PM NDSC Membership Meeting

6:30PM - 7:00PM Reception and Cash Bar

7:00PM - 9:00PM Banquet (by ticket only)

9:00PM - 11:00PM Dance

NDSC Convention Agenda Summary
NDSC Convention Home Page

NDSC Convention Schedule Friday, July 19, 2013

This is a summary of events for Friday, July 19, 2013 at the NDSC Annual Convention in Denver, CO.

7:00AM - 7:00PM Registration Open

7:30AM - 12:30PM Kids' Camp Session 1

8:00AM - 12:30PM Pre-Conferences

9:00AM - 12:00PM Friendship Club Open House

12:00PM - 8:00PM Exhibits Open

1:00PM - 2:30PM Friendship Club Open House

1:30PM - 3:00PM Sharing Sessions

1:30PM - 5:00PM Film Festival

3:00PM - 8:00PM Kids' Camp Session 2

3:15PM - 5:15PM Youth & Adult Kick Off Party

3:15PM - 5:15PM Brothers & Sisters Get Acquainted

3:30PM - 5:00PM Sharing Sessions

6:30PM - 7:45PM Opening Session

8:00PM - 10:00PM Opening Reception and 3...2...1...Dance!

8:00PM - 10:00PM Adult Sibling Networking Reception

NDSC Convention Agenda Summary
NDSC Convention Home Page

teen teaches kids with Down syndrome how to have tutu much fun dancing

from Moultrie news:

During the weeks of July 29 and Aug. 5, elementary and middle school aged children with Down syndrome are invited to ballet workshops through the not-for-profit, The Purple Tutu.

The mission of The Purple Tutu is to bring the beauty and artistry of ballet to dancers with Down Syndrome who may feel that classical dance training is out of their reach. The first workshop held in April was a huge success. A dancer’s grandmother said “I cried after attending the first class, cried “happy tears” because I was just overcome seeing the joy on the children’s faces and overcome with gratitude for The Purple Tutu”.

Students will be accepted on a first come / first serve basis. Each class will be taught at Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church. Classes will start at 9 a.m. and be built around attendance. Classes are at no charge, but donations are appreciated. All proceeds generated by The Purple Tutu will go to a scholarship fund to benefit the education of a child with special needs.

Participants are encouraged to wear sweatpants/yoga pants, a T-shirt and bare feet. Tutus will be provided for class use.

Holland McDowell, who founded The Purple Tutu, began her formal dance training at age 7 with Charleston Ballet Theatre School and has been dancing for nine years. McDowell is trained in classical ballet, pointe, jazz, tap and musical theatre. She has performed in productions including: Charleston Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “Cinderella,” “Off to Oz,” “Willie Wonka” and “Alice in Wonderland.” She attended The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Summer Dance 2012 program.

McDowell currently studies under the direction of the Charleston Dance Institute, teaches ballet to children at Meeting Street Academy and attends the Academic Magnet High School (Class of 2015.)

If you would like to participate with the program or donate to The Purple Tutu, please email thepurpletutuballet@gmail.com.

Etiquette, dance classes for students with Down syndrome are a hit

by Christie Lovvorn from AL.com:
Every Tuesday evening this year, the Icebreakers have put on their dancing shoes and gone to the Azalea City Center for the Arts where Ann Druhan taught them ballroom dances as part of the group's etiquette class. The young adult social and community service club of the Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County completed the classes June 8.
"We wanted to teach traditional ballroom dancing and etiquette skills to young adults with Down syndrome to help them gain poise and confidence when in social situations," said Lisa Gibert whose daughter Britt is a member of the Icebreakers.
"Our etiquette class covers the basics of a traditional etiquette class and provides extra time to learn and practice the skills being taught," Gibert said. "We also use methods used in drama classes such as role-playing, memorization, and improvisation to make the lessons fun, engaging, and memorable. The course includes lessons in ballroom dancing, table manners, and basic etiquette."
The classes, which averaged about 18 students all ranging between 18-30 years old, were part of a pilot program funded by grants provided by the Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. They were free to students with the exception of a $100 fee to offset costs for a dinner and a reception.
"I have taught them the proper dance positions, how to escort a girl to the dance floor, and a few other manners when at a social function," said veteran dance instructor Ann Druhan who also taught the group basic table manners and party manners.

Inspired: a review of the NDSC convention weekend

from Particularly Perfect by Amy Kosmalski:

Inspired.

Tonight I feel inspired.

I have been inspired by hundreds of beautiful people.  People like Kayla...all of whom are rocking designer genes.  Amazing people of all shapes, sizes, abilities, ethnicities, religions, and nationalities...all of whom came together from July 19-21 for the largest annual Down syndrome "family reunion".

I walk through my daily life appreciating Down syndrome.  Appreciating it for the miracle of my girl, for she truly is amazing and my greatest inspiration.  But...while I appreciate Down syndrome, it is also something I rarely think about these days.  While it used to way heavy on my mind and my heart, now it is simply a part of our lives.  Because it is a part of our lives, I consider myself an expert at DS-dar...Down syndrome radar.  I can usually tell from behind if someone has Down syndrome.  I enjoy so much seeing people with Down syndrome shopping, playing, dancing...just being...but it is rare.  Well, not on this weekend.  This weekend it felt amazing to walk into a restaurant and making my way past every single table, noticing someone with Down syndrome enjoying a meal with their family.  Eating, laughing and sharing stories together...just living their lives.  I felt home.

We spent the weekend in our nations capitol, Washington, D.C.  Rich with history...and we made a little bit of history ourselves.  Thursday we made history when over 160 self-advocates {people with Down syndrome} took to the Hill to advocate for a better future for themselves.  Asking of their congressmen and senators to support the ABLE Act and increase NIH funding.  It was truly a sight to see!  While on the Hill, we met with Senator Carper, Senator Coons and Congressman Carney's staff members.

Now...I admit...no one should ever let a pregnant woman lose in a Senators office.  Especially a pregnant woman that is passionate about a brighter future for her child.  While I have immense hope for the future of the ABLE Act and the utmost respect for Senator Carper's staff, squashing a Momma's dreams = not cool.  As this one staffer began to compare the ABLE Act to elderly people and Medicare, I lost my cool.  Trying to compare my six-year-old daughter's inability to save for her future to someone at the end of their years spending down their money instead of having to use it to pay a nursing home is ridiculous...and I told her so.  Filled with tears, I issued my warning that I was pregnant, hormonal and emotional.  But seriously...she was trying to compare a person that has lived a full life, purchased a home, been able to put their children through college, own cars, etc...to my daughter who can't have more than $2,000 in assets without losing her medical benefits.  It was just a ridiculous point and one I refused to listen to...and I think she got that message loud and clear.  Ah...to use the pregnancy excuse...it's fantastic...

The day resumed - meeting with Senator Coons staff.

That meeting went great.  Kayla and I skipped out on the Carney meeting as I wanted to ensure she rested before her big event...The Global Down Syndrome Foundation Fashion Show Preview and Gala.

As we walked into the Seewall Belmont House, Scott Grimes (from ER) was on the stage and immediately stepped down to warmly welcome Kayla.  Next she was joined by Bob Guiney (from the Bachelor) and the guitarist of their band, Jay.  She thought she was pretty big time...hanging "back stage" {actually in the basement}...

Notice the toilet paper in the background...now that's rock and roll!


During our backstage time we were able to spend time with the Hennefer family.  Brad Hennefer {B-Rad as his friends call him} is an inspiration.  He is the first person with Down syndrome to earn two varsity letters in high school...one in basketball and the other in golf.  Yes, Brad is an amazing athlete but he is also much more than that, Brad is an incredible young man that has the most wonderful personality.

After a few practice runs, the models were ready to work it...and did they ever work it...

All of the models rocked their smiles, confidence, swagger and amazing clothes...including their designer genes.  All of the models had Down syndrome.

Kayla with Rep. Perlmutter {her escort} and Michelle Whitten, Global Down Syndrome Foundation.

Guiney & Grimes took to the stage...and so did Kayla.  No one was gonna keep her back...

and they were just wonderful to her.  Soon all of the models were on the stage together again...dancing, singing and having the time of their lives.  Seeing my girl's confidence was quite possibly one of the most amazing moments I have ever experienced.  She lit up like nothing I have ever seen.  She was right where she belongs...in the spotlight.

Thank you, Bob and Scott, for being so wonderful and kind...

Working the "red carpet"...

Paparazzi...

The post fashion show interview...she kinda loves the camera...a lot! 
This is Kayla's new friend, DeOndra Dixon...Jamie Foxx's sister.  She is beautiful and kind and smart...Kayla loved her!
Abby Perlmutter of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation...Kayla is her biggest fan!
Abby's mom {don't they look alike}...and Trish Morris of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation...

We are so fortunate to meet some of the most amazing people...all because Kayla has an extra chromosome...and perhaps because she is so darn cute...

Onto the NDSC National Convention...

Blogger sharing session run by fellow blogger Bethany Balsis.  It was a great place to chat with other bloggers and place faces with the words that I read and that inspire me daily.  It is amazing to know that others recognize me and also draw inspiration from my words.

These are Bethany's girls...Nika and Payton.  Nika is their little Russian cutie...I so admire this family.  Having a child with Down syndrome and adopting another...just goes to show you that life with a child with Down syndrome is so amazing there are people that want to multiply the amazingness...You can check out Bethany's blog here.

As the weekend started, we were able to steal some time with our favorite little guy, JJ...my future son-in-law.  Seriously...can you get enough of him?  I can't...
There was much to learn...and my brain is still reeling.  This was our fourth convention and I am amazed at how much I learn each time.  Kayla is amazing and patiently sits through sessions...playing on her iPad, coloring, and reading.  In between sessions...different story.  She was on a mission...she was handing out her "business cards" like it was her job...I am fairly certain that everyone that attended left with a Princess Kayla card...whether they wanted one or not.

And while there was much to learn and many amazing people to meet...let's be real...it was all about the dance...Just Dance {round 1}...obviously my girl was beyond ecstatic...and there were hundreds of other faces just like this one on that dance floor....

Onto the most popular night of the convention...the awards dinner and Just Dance...

Just in case you didn't get enough the first time...here he is again...

This is one of my favorite family's in the world...so glad our kids brought us together...

Rick's parents came to DC to support us...and we appreciated it more than they will know.  I also know this was hard for them.  They don't see Down syndrome when they see Kayla.  They don't see everything we have done and have to do to keep her progressing with her peers.  They see Kayla, a perfect six-year-old little girl.  And she is just that...perfect.  Regardless of her abilities, she will always be perfect...but for them to come to see all of Kayla's friends, I know that was difficult for them.  Seeing and hearing the stories was, I am sure, an eye-opening experience...

Above all...seeing this girl smile...nothing is more perfect.  The joy that exudes her body when she is with her Daddy is priceless...

And I loved meeting friends I feel like I have known forever...

This is my new friend, Sawyer...
She's ridiculously cute...
Her mom recognized Kayla from my blog and told me what an inspiration Kayla is to her.  Tears.  Really. When I write, I do it for Kayla {well...and for me, too}.  I do it to remember all of the amazing things that we do together.  But to realize I am touching people is just incredible.  To Sawyer's mommy and daddy...your princess is beautiful and amazing.  Keep faith that she can do anything and by the time she is Kayla's age, she will be doing far more than Kayla.  That's how it works...learning from those that went before you.  She is going to change the world...just you wait and see!

This is my other new friend, Jenny...

She is a teacher.  Yes, you read that right...a teacher.  She is one of a few teachers in a class for kids with Down syndrome.  Amazing.  Inspirational.  Thank you, Jenny, for showing me what is possible for Kayla's future.  Just like you, Kayla is going to do amazing things!  Keep rockin' that extra chromosome and keep proving to the world that people with Down syndrome are making a difference!

And this diva here...tell me you don't love her smile...
Well...she attends college and lives on her own.  She had a roommate but moved out because she was tired of having to "take care" of her roommate.  I'm serious...that's what she said!  The most impressive part?  She has a 3.8 GPA.  How many of us could say we had a 3.8 GPA in college?  I know I wish I could...

And this may seem a bit stalker-ish...but I'm ok with that...

This is quite possibly one of the prettiest girls I have ever seen.  Ever.  Down syndrome aside.  Her poise and confidence was unbelievable.  I had the opportunity to chat with her younger sister and this beauty in blue is just 19 years old.  I may make enemies in the Down syndrome community right now but I have to say it...I know beauty is much more than what you see on the outside...but carrying yourself appropriately is half of the battle.  Making Kayla appear more like "typical" kids has always been a goal.  The more we separate our kids, the harder it will be for them to "appear" the same.  This girl is my inspiration.  She is dressed like she is 19...accessorized like she is 19...hair and makeup is done like she is 19.  Perhaps that is why she carries herself with such amazing confidence.  Whatever the case, this girl is stunning inside and out...and she knows it...and that is what is important!

The amazing people with Down syndrome at this convention were endless...here is just one more...
This is Tim.  Owner of Tim's Place.

Tim serves up breakfast, lunch and hugs.  He keeps count of those hugs, too.  But he serves much more than that...he serves up inspiration for people with Down syndrome and a side of awareness for everyone in the community.  Thank you, Tim, for dreaming big and proving to the world that people with Down syndrome don't have to settle for anything less than they dream.

Sure...these are all "success stories"...but don't we all strive to be successful...to be happy?  That's what I want for Kayla...and nothing less.  Whatever that will look like for her is just fine by me, but she will be successful.  I know there are parents that may not believe their kids can be one of these success stories, but I just don't understand why you wouldn't hope and dream for your child to reach their greatest potential.  What Kayla can and will achieve in this world is up to her and I am excited for her future.  I will be right there, right behind her...encouraging, supporting and loving her all the while...

Ok...enough of all of that...Just Dance...

As the convention drew to a close, I was witness to one of the most amazing sights ever...
Over 300 self advocates and their brothers and sisters took to the stage and performed Firework.  As they finished and the crowd took to their feet, the self advocates chanted "one more time...one more time...".  And so, we were treated to the show again.  Seeing these self advocates and their siblings come together as a group...tears...hot, happy tears.  It doesn't help that I am pregnant and emotional...

We left the weekend filled with knowledge, new friends, and the most incredible memories.  But above all, I left inspired.  To all of my new friends with Down syndrome, thank you.  Thank you for inspiring me.  Each of you are making an incredible footprint on this world.  Each of you are proving that an extra chromosome is nothing more than just that.  It doesn't define anyone with Down syndrome...and it will never define Kayla.  Her greatness will simply be defined by who she is as a person and by everything that she can do...not what she can't.

NDSC Convention Schedule for Saturday 7/21

Saturday's itinerary at the NDSC Convention in Washington, DC


7:30AM-3:30PM NDSC Convention Registration Open!


8:30AM-10:00AM, 10:30AM-12:00PM, 3:30PM-5:00PM Workshops
The General Convention also consists of five workshop cycles, three cycles offered on Saturday and two on Sunday.  Each cycle offers a selection of 14 workshops that registrants may attend based on their interest.  These interactive workshops are provided by the experts – from those who pioneered in early childhood communication, to those who redefined the K-12 classroom and are on the frontier of adult challenges.  Each workshop is 90 minutes in length.  Some topics are repeated to give flexibility to attendees.

7:30AM-12:30PM, 1:15PM-5:15PM Kids Camp - registration is closed
Kids’ Camp will provide a means for parents to leave their children between the ages of six months  and 11 years (14 years for children with DS) for designated times during the weekend in a safe, structured, and fun environment.  This program will be offered to families registered for the general convention whose children are not old enough to participate in the Brothers & Sisters or Youth & Adults Conferences.  The camp will be offered in four separate sessions.  Registration is required for each session.


8:00AM-5:15PM Youth and Adult - registration is closed
The Youth & Adults Conference really is the heart and soul of the weekend! It is designed to be a fun, empowering, enriching and safe experience for self advocates (individuals with Down syndrome) age 15 and older. With the support of NDSC’s Y&A Support Team, this conference is planned and presented by self advocates, for self advocates.


8:00AM-5:15PM Brothers and Sisters - registration is closed
The NDSC Brothers & Sisters Conference is a fun-filled weekend where siblings can share ideas and experiences and make new friends. It is a place to learn, to be inspired and grow, to be enlightened and encouraged, and to ask tough questions in a supportive environment.  Participants will learn about Down syndrome and disability related issues, including how to be an advocate for their brothers and sisters.

12:00PM-1:30PM Lunch on your own

1:30PM-3:00PM General Session
The second of two Plenary Sessions. Plenary sessions feature inspirational keynote presentations by self advocates and Down syndrome experts from around the world who present on topics of broad interest.

5:30PM-6:00PM NDSC Membership Meeting

6:30PM-11:00PM Reception, Banquet, & Dance
On Saturday evening, we will host our traditional Awards Banquet to honor outstanding achievement in the Down syndrome community in various categories.  This is a ticketed event, which includes a plated dinner and the awards presentation. 
Immediately following the banquet there will be another awesome opportunity for all attendees to dance – no ticket required.


8:00AM-6:00PM Exhibits Open
There is also an Exhibit Area for vendors where you’ll find the latest in books, toys, teaching aids, apparel, software and more.


See the NDSC Convention website for complete information.

Summer camp gives those with Down syndrome a chance to dance

from News OK by Ben Luschen:
It was Caleb McFarland’s time to shine.
McFarland has attended the Dance and Down syndrome Music Theatre Camp, held annually at the University of Central Oklahoma, multiple times in the past, but now all eyes were on him.

For the camp’s final performance on June 15, the dancers performed selections from “Grease.” McFarland was the featured performer in “Greased Lightning,” the show’s climax.
Apparently, learning the dance moves made famous by John Travolta was not as hard as it looks.
“It usually takes 30 minutes,” McFarland said. “For me it takes two. The dance is simple.”
Still, chance favors the prepared, so McFarland worked tirelessly throughout the camp to perfect his choreography.
“It was 24/7, four days,” he said. “I practiced a lot.”
The Dance and Down syndrome Camp, which this year served youths as young as 13 to adults as old as 36, is a weeklong day camp held every summer to give individuals with Down syndrome a chance to participate in a theatrical production. The dancers spend the first four days of the camp rehearsing for their final musical showcase on Friday.
The theme of this year’s performance was “Grease,” but past themes have included Disney Channel’s “Camp Rock,” and the “High School Musical” trilogy.
Robyn Pasternack, an assistant professor of ballet at UCO, started the camp five years ago. Her daughter, Haley, has Down syndrome. This was the first year she was old enough to participate in the camp.
Pasternack originally started the camp with her daughter in mind.
“I wanted to know what was in store for my daughter when she gets older,” Pasternack said.
“That’s what really struck me. Here she was 5 or 6 years old and I didn’t really know what the future was going to be for her.”

After five years of teaching dance at her camp, Pasternack says she’s seen the great amount of potential that those with Down syndrome have, both as performers and as people.
Many of this year’s campers had been involved in past versions of the camp. Merradyth McCallister, the camp’s behavior specialist and mother of one of the campers, has seen the camp progress.
“They’ve gotten so much better every year working at their abilities,” McCallister said. “I mean, it helps them build up so much confidence that it leaks out into the other activities that they do.”
Tyler Sorum, a psychology student at UCO who works at the camp as a movement specialist, says he is amazed by the progress the performers have made in just the week they were at the camp.
“When we first started,” Sorum said, “listening to them sing was kind of a scary situation, but they definitely have proved to me that they have a range of voice. It’s interesting to see all the different kids and the different aspects to them.”
After this year’s performance, which also included the songs “Summer Nights” and “We Go Together,” the audience begged for an encore. The dancers, of course, obliged.
Kathryn Taylor, who played Rizzo in the musical, says “Grease” ranks among the better performances the camp has ever held.
“I mean, I’ve been coming here for five years,” Taylor said. “It was great.”
Though many of the campers had shined individually, McFarland says the credit for the day should go to everyone who participated in the event.
“This experience is about being all together,” McFarland said.

dancer with Down syndrome wins gold at regional competition

from the Oakland Press by Monica Drake:

Many people with Down syndrome are described as having a lack of coordination — but Royal Oak resident Ryan Dupuis, 24, proves that wrong.

Dupuis has been dancing for the past 18 years, and while attending Royal Oak High School, he was on the varsity cheerleading team.

He is the only student at Juliana’s Academy of Dance in Madison Heights with a disability. Yet, he was selected by the owner to be a co-instructor for a boys hip-hop class.

Last week, Dupuis competed at the senior division of Star Systems National Talent’s regional competition in Sterling Heights, against more than 70 adults, where he won a gold trophy for his solo dance of “Party Rock” by LMFAO. He is now qualified to compete in the national competition in Las Vegas at the end of June, and it was the first year Dupuis performed in a competition.

Juliana Pirpinelli, owner of Juliana’s Academy of Dance, said, “The audience went crazy over him.”

“It’s hard to get up in front of an audience. I used to throw up before I would perform. But he walks up on that stage like it’s nothing,” she said.

Dupuis’ mother Colleen said all the instructors and students at the dance studio “see him for his abilities, not his disabilities.”

“The young people here treat him like everybody else. There’s no difference, and he dances just like they do,” she said. Dupuis has been a student at Juliana’s Academy of Dance for five years. He has performed a solo during every dance recital since he started, and he said he plans on dancing for at least six more years. Every year, he picks his own song. His first year, he dressed up like Michael Jackson and danced to “Thriller.”

His mother said Dupuis loves all kinds of music — from pop to country. He wanted to dance to “Sexy and I Know It” by LMFAO this year instead of “Party Rock,” but she said no.

“He can shake those hips a little too well,” she said, with a laugh. “He can make Shakira jealous.”

Dupuis has been a co-teacher for the 7- to 11-year-old hip-hop class, “The Junior Big Bang Attack,” with Corey Whitfield, 27, every Thursday night for the past year.

Whitfield said Dupuis helped choreograph the students’ competitive dance, which won first place in the group hip-hop division and third place in overall hip-hop.

“(Dupuis) is three years younger than me, but he dances better than me. I'm jealous,” Whitfield said. “This kid can dance circles around me, and I’ve been dancing for 22 years.”

Whitfield said he remembers when he first saw Dupuis dance three years ago. This was before he began teaching at the academy, but he already heard about Dupuis’ talent from others within the community.

“One of my students I trained at a gymnastic facility brought me to a recital. (The student) told me that Ryan was going to do a solo. Immediately, my mouth dropped to the floor. Not only that, but seeing him perform with a group of kids, as well, the way he kept up with the choreography more than some of the kids who have been dancing a longer time, it really puts dancing in perspective. This kid puts one hundred million percent in. He is amazing,” he said.

Colleen Dupuis said her son has had 22 surgeries in his life, recently had two major knee surgeries, was born with a heart defect and has a cyst on his hipbone. He also was diagnosed with Graves Disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to overactivity of the thyroid glad. Yet Dupuis still keeps going.

“He’s overcome a lot of medical obstacles. You cannot keep him down. Sometimes he feels sore afterwards, but he doesn’t care,” she said. Pirpinelli, the dance academy owner, said, “I think it’s good for the kids in the class to learn that everybody has worth and everybody can offer something. Ryan has a lot of worth.”

mother refuses to be bowed by myriad hardships

from the Richmond Times-Dispatch by Bill Lohmann:
This is not exactly the way Kim Moncrief figured motherhood would go, but that's OK by her.
"It's been an adventure," Moncrief said one recent afternoon, sitting at her dining room table. "That's for sure."
Here's a recap of the last half-dozen years: Her son Logan was born in 2006 with Down syndrome and a heart defect that required two surgeries by the time he was 3 months old; her twins born in 2009 needed physical therapy when they were slow to crawl and walk; and she has battled breast cancer. Twice.
In the middle of everything, her husband, Johnny, was laid off from the staffing agency where he worked as a manager, and they started several businesses to stay afloat.
"We waited all this time, bought a house, had everything set up," Moncrief said. "You just never know what's going to happen in your life.
"It's never been normal since the day we started this. Now, we look at it and just laugh because first of all, it's silly to think about what 'normal' is. 'Normal' is just whatever you become."
Moncrief marvels at the unexpected paths she has taken because of her circumstances. Friends marvel at the way she has traveled those paths.
"When I look at Kim, I see the most remarkable person I have ever met," said Anne White. "Whenever I start to think things are tough, all I have to do is think about all Kim has endured and how graceful she has been through it all, and I realize things really aren't that bad.
"It's about how we deal with the challenges we are given in life, and she is truly an inspiration in how she has dealt with everything."
White's daughter, Lindsay, who just turned 20 and who has Down syndrome, dances with Miracles in Motion, a dance troupe for children with special needs that Moncrief founded after Logan was born. While she was managing her children's special needs and undergoing treatment for breast cancer, Moncrief, a longtime dance instructor, was encouraging and inspiring other people's children through tap and ballet.
"Even through her bouts with cancer, she made sure our kids' dance routines kept going with little disruption for them," White said. "She was battling cancer, yet wanted to make sure the dancers were OK. How selfless is that?"
Lyn Dodge, whose 8-year-old daughter Emily has Down syndrome and dances with Miracles in Motion, said, "Kim is an incredible woman with a huge heart for everyone. She certainly gives way more than she receives."


* * * * *Moncrief, 42, knew her life had changed when tests during her first pregnancy showed the child was likely to be born with Down syndrome — and that was if he survived at all. In utero, the child's heart wasn't formed properly, one lung wasn't doing anything and the other was filled with fluid, as was the brain.
"Once we got over the initial shock of it, then we just sort of went through it," Moncrief said during an interview at her home in western Henrico County. "We just decided we're just going to keep going. If he makes it, he was meant to be here, and if he doesn't make it, then we're meant to do something with that.
"There's a purpose for everything."
Just before Logan was born, the chamber in his heart developed, his lung began working properly and the fluid cleared from his brain.
"It was really crazy," she said. "They said it was a miracle."
Another moment of magic had occurred weeks earlier when Moncrief faced one of her competitive dance classes and told them what was going on with her pregnancy. She told them if the baby survived he would have Down syndrome, "but we want him here." The reaction was largely somber except for one student who blurted excitedly, "That is awesome!"
The student, Ashley Gregory, came up with the idea for a dance troupe for children with special needs. She reminded Moncrief for months what a cool idea it would be until Miracles in Motion came to be under the auspices of Ann Catherine Cross School of Dance, where Moncrief teaches and where Gregory still helps her.
"She's my other inspiration," Moncrief said.
Logan is the other one. Before Moncrief could start Miracles in Motion — in which she would provide instruction and costumes to children with a wide range of disabilities and have them perform, just like the children without any special needs, so the community could see them, too — she needed to get her son well.
He spent much of his first year in hospitals. Once he was on the mend, she launched Miracles in Motion.
Then she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
She underwent a lumpectomy and radiation treatments, and everything looked good. So she and Johnny decided to try to have another child — and they ended up with twins.

The twins, Isabella and Gibson, were 4 months old when Moncrief discovered she had breast cancer again. A month later, Johnny lost his job, and the couple scrambled to bring in income, starting an ice-cream shop, a commercial cleaning firm and a T-shirt business (http://www.getdowns.org/) that aims to raise awareness about Down syndrome.

"It was wild there for a while," Johnny Moncrief said. "We really feel like God put us in situations that we've overcome and been able to inspire others. It's almost like we've been able to do more through it than we would have ever been able to do otherwise.
"You can't sit around saying, 'What if?' all the time. This is the way it is, and you have to live with it. It just becomes your life."
Kim underwent a mastectomy and additional surgeries. Family and friends stepped forward and helped with meals and support, and the Moncriefs made it through.
"It was a crazy blur of things," Kim said. "I don't know how it all worked out, but it did.
"Everything is good now."
The twins, now 2½, are running around, and Logan, who turns 6 in June, is thriving — still undergoing therapy, but playing basketball and soccer and loving going on stage to perform with Miracles in Motion. Johnny is working as an insurance agent, as well as managing businesses the couple started in recent years. Kim's health is fine, and she's back to teaching dance, including Miracles in Motion.
"It's just unbelievable how nothing can seem to get her down," said daughter-in-law Amber White, who is married to Moncrief's stepson, Jeffrey, from her first marriage. "She remains positive throughout everything. She will never be defeated."
Moncrief said the challenges of the past few years have made her wiser and more confident, taught her to take what you're given, learn what you can and press on, and "it will work itself out."
"I've always been open to whatever comes," she said. "I've always been the kind of person that rides the wave, just kind of jump in and go, 'Wooo!'
"I always knew there was something important I was supposed to do, but I wasn't there yet. Then I had Logan and the dance troupe. Everything has come together the past five years, and I know where I'm supposed to be."

Girl's Dream Comes True At Local Prom

from KVIA ABC-7 by Jennifer Myers:

Carolann Nunez is a Special Olympics gold medalist. She has also won second place in a national Glamor Shots contest. But the one thing Nunez really wanted to accomplish was being crowned prom queen at Americas High School.

Girl's Dream Comes True At Local Prom - News Story - KVIA El Paso

Her friends and family came together to make last Saturday's prom a truly memorable moment for Nunez. They made posters, tweeted to encourage voters and even spread the word on Facebook to help boost her numbers.

"Carolann has dreamed of being prom queen for years and years. She's watched Disney movies with prom queens getting crowned. For years and years she's always wanted to be prom queen," said her father, Michael Nunez.

Carolann Nunez has Down Syndrome. But that hasn't stopped her from achieving what many high school girls see as the epitome of high school accolades, something she says she couldn't have done without her friends and family. "So proud of them. My parents helped me make a dream come true," said Nunez.

ABC-7 spoke with a few Americas students, many of whom said they were touched by Nunez's kind heart and warm spirit. "She's the happiest person in the world. She's so energetic and full of life. She's the sweetest person on earth," said Americas senior Gabrielle Roper. "Every day when I see her, she's always really happy. She says hi to everybody. She's really friendly," said prom king Brian Contreras.

Nunez picked out a pink sparkly dress for the big occasion, and her father went as her date.

After she was crowned, the screams and cheers that followed after she was crowned showed just how much her fellow students cared.

After the prom king and queen dance, she ran up to one of her biggest supporters.

"She said, 'Daddy, I did it!' and gave me a great big hug," said her father.

ABC-7 asked her father what he would say if he could speak to all of the students that voted for Nunez. "Thank you to the student body. Their caring and acceptance of Carolann has just been fantastic. All the thanks in the world goes out to them for making her dream come true."

teen with Down syndrome shares excitement of prom night

from KHOU 11 News by Lisa Chavarria:

A local teenager who graduates next month was excited to experience prom night Thursday.

Amber House, 18, has been homeschooled. Her mother is grateful for how things have turned out.

Amber didn’t have a date, so her mom finally went to the parents of a boy who was in the choir with her daughter.

“I said well, I’m asking too much. And she said, ‘No he wants to ask her today.’ And I just started crying, and she said, ‘Is that OK?’ I couldn’t even answer, I said, ‘Yes it’s OK!” her mother recalled.

Amber could hardly hide her smile.

“I’m really excited,” she said.

KHOU 11 News talked to her about her first big date.

"I’m going with Matt,” she said.

When asked how she would describe Matt Amber just smiled.

After all the primping and curling was done, it was time for the big reveal and a beautiful girl was ready for prom and a date with a big heart.

“I’m just so proud of the young man who would step up and take her. And that she’s able to do this and have this experience with all her friends,” Amber's mom said.

three teens created the dance troupe The Huggables

from Morris Daily Herald by Kris Stadalsky:

When Olivia Longo or Hanna Pottinger perform an arabesque in dance class, a sense of accomplishment and pride can be seen on their faces, as well as their parents’ and instructors’ faces.

A group of dance students, who all have Down Syndrome, are learning ballet, jazz and even hip hop thanks to three teens who created the dance troupe The Huggables.

Carley Serena, Kelsie Chasten and Julia Malinowski, best friends for years and now seniors at Joliet Catholic Academy, started The Huggables this summer to give young girls with disabilities an opportunity they hadn’t had before.

“We tried soccer and other sports,” said Hanna’s dad, Kurt Pottinger. “This type of activity is perfect. They all get a chance to participate all the time. She wants me to watch, she loves it.”

The instructors’ desire to create the class stems from their love of dance, children and wanting to help others.

Helping others less fortunate is something all three come by naturally. The teens watched  their mothers, who are also good friends, help those in need through the organization they created, Shorewood H.U.G.S. (Helping You Get Started).

Although H.U.G.S. runs out of Shorewood, the non-profit organization grants wishes to families in need all over the area.  Serena and Malinowski live in Shorewood, while Chasten lives in Channahon.

The teens have been volunteering for H.U.G.S  since the eighth grade, helping out at fundraisers and other events. It was through helping one family whose child has Down Syndrome that the teen dancers came up with the idea for The Huggables.

“We saw our parents grant wishes through H.U.G.S. and we asked how could we do something,” said Serena. “It evolved from that.”

The program was started this past summer with just a few dancers. Now it has grown to include eight young girls. Serena, Chasten and Malinowski have seen their students’ abilities grow by leaps and bounds.

“It’s amazing what they learned from the first day,” Malinowski said.

The instructors have a great rapport with their students. Once they put on their red tutus, the students are almost magically transformed, happily and ambitiously doing whatever is asked of them.

“The leaders are really great with them,” Pottinger said. “They are phenomenal with the girls.”

Autum Longo’s first day in class didn’t start out exactly as planned, said the teens.

At first Autum sat on the sidelines with her parents, keeping her head down. The instructors encouraged her to join in, but she kept refusing.

Suddenly Autum changed her mind and joined the class. Not only did she follow along perfectly, she had been watching and learning the steps the entire time. She knew exactly what to do. Now she loves coming to class every Sunday.

“Now she knows everything, she’s awesome,” said Chasten.

The dance class is held every Sunday at Nouveau Dance Company in Plainfield. Owner Lindy Wade was gracious enough to donate space in her studio for the program.

Christine Longo brings daughter Olivia all the way from Chicago Heights every week.

“She looks forward to it,” Longo said. “There’s not a lot of opportunities for her to be with her peers. It has helped her to develop friendships with kids with similar disabilities.”

All three of the instructors will be focusing on child-related studies when they go to college next fall.

Malinowski intends to be a pediatric nurse; Serena a speech pathologist; and Chasten an occupational therapist or dietician working with children.

But The Huggables dance program will continue even after they head to college, perhaps in the form of a dance camp or another format, they said.

For now the instructors are having a riot teaching their students to sway their hips and turn their heads to hip hop music or strut across the dance floor, wands in hand, pointing each toe as they attempt that perfect ballet position.

“We love it as much as they do,” said Malinowski. “I don’t know who has more fun.”