Meet the model with Down syndrome, Madeline Stuart. This 18-year-old is representing the Down syndrome community with pride. Although most people wouldn't expect someone with special needs to make headlines in the fashion and modeling industry, Stuart is currently dominating the runway, magazine covers and now, the social media realm. This girl just proved to the world that birth defect is not a hindrance to achieve your dream.
A photo posted by Madeline Stuarts (@madelinestuarts) on Aug 24, 2015 at 6:56am PDT
Down Syndrome Should Be 'Celebrated'
Madeline Stuart, 19, from Australia has become an international success after her proud mom, Rosanne, posted Madeline's modeling portfolio online. Madeline was then invited to walk at New York Fashion Week and was offered a job as a bridal model.
Talking to Broadly, Stuart's mom said that when Madeline got the modeling job, she initially thought that a career in the industry would be a good start for her daughter. She believed that it would strongly encourage her daughter to adopt a healthier lifestyle and lose some weight.
"I don't ever stop Maddie from doing anything unless it's dangerous or illegal. She's 19, and when I was 19 I'd do whatever I wanted," she explained to the publication. "I believe that just because she has Down syndrome doesn't mean she should have any different life than what I had. Why should she? She's a person just like I am."
Rosanne also revealed on Madeline's website that her daughter wants to gain attention through social media, so she can change people's perception about Down syndrome. Moreover, Stuart wants people to know that "Down Syndrome is a blessing, something to be celebrated."
A photo posted by Madeline Stuarts (@madelinestuarts) on Sep 11, 2015 at 9:32am PDT
What Is Down Syndrome?
According to NDSS.org. Down syndrome usually occurs when a person has full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21. A few common physical traits of a person born with the said disorder are low muscle tone, an upward slant to the eyes and small stature. Most people with Down syndrome have cognitive delays, which will range from mild to moderate.
Inspiring Others
Since Stuart's modeling portfolio gone viral, she didn't only won a modeling contract, but she became an inspirational role model as well. Rosanne said her daughter became an inspiration for many people, not only for individuals with disabilities, but for all the people chasing their dreams.
Madeline just proved to all people that nothing is impossible. Everybody can achieve their dreams. Her passion and determination have opened the eyes of all people to what's possible for all the individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities.
Stuart is now taking the social media by storm. In fact, she already has 127,000 Instagram followers and over 600,000 fans on Facebook. This girl slowly rose to fame in an unfazed, but proud manner.
