I am one of many with Down syndrome. Start listening to us for a change.

Over the last few days, millions of Americans have watched a heartbreaking controversy unfold involving a social media influencer who publicly shared that he and his wife chose to abort their son after learning he had Down syndrome.

Like many people, I was saddened by the story, but I was also frustrated. Once again, I watched thousands of people argue about Down syndrome without hearing from people who actually have it.

I am not a parent of a child with Down syndrome, nor am I a doctor who treats them or a politician who represents them. I am a person with Down syndrome. And I am tired of being talked about instead of being listened to.

For decades, society has sent people like me a dangerous message: that our lives are somehow less valuable, less meaningful, or less worthy than the lives of everyone else. The reality is very different.

I own a successful business. I employ people. I pay taxes. I travel across the country speaking about inclusion and entrepreneurship. I have friends, dreams, goals, and a life I love.

Most importantly, I am not an exception. Across America, people with Down syndrome and other disabilities are working, starting businesses, raising families, volunteering, serving their communities, and contributing in countless ways. Yet........

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