Woman with Down Syndrome Breaks Down Barriers

CARY, N.C. - July 28, 2013 - PRLog -- Karen Gaffney is the first living person with Down Syndrome to receive an honorary doctorate from a college or university.   In May 2013 Karen received her degree from the University of Portland.  Dr. Tom Greene, provost and professor of education, described her as, “…a woman who refused to be told what she could not do in every arena from the classroom to the English Channel.”

Karen has tried lots of things people told her she could never do.  She is the President of a non-profit organization dedicated to championing the journey to full inclusion in families, schools, the workplace and the community for people with developmental disabilities.  Karen is a motivational speaker and distance swimmer who has successfully swam the English Channel as part of a six-person relay team.  

Her very life has been a witness for all people with Down Syndrome,” said University of Portland Father Mark Poorman. “She has just accomplished amazing things.”

Gaffney is now a sought-after speaker who takes her message around the world.  A busy woman, Karen spreads the message that we are more alike than we are different, and the tremendous capabilities of what is possible for parents and their children with disabilities.  Karen says "For some people, making friends is easy and natural.  But for many of us, it's the hardest thing we'll ever do...We need people like you to look beyond our differences and see our strengths.  And recognize our abilities to learn, live and grow along with everyone else in the community."

Join us for an incredibly inspiring show about courage, determination and love on the next Breaking Free Show, Monday, July 29 @ 1 pm/EST.  Tune in at: http://www.nissancommunications.com/breakingfree.php.  Callers welcome:  919-518-9773.   You also can Skype with us at:   computers2kvoice.  

This is a show about possibilities, not probabilities!  

*Photo source:  www.insource.org