Life
7-Year-Old With Down Syndrome Shows What Beauty Means
She dreams of the runway someday.
Maxim Sorokopud
11.06.18

For all of the progress in the world, there’s still a long way to go in terms of equality. But this story shows how one very special girl is changing opinions in one of the most difficult industries.

Grace is a seven year old who, like any other young girl, aspires to have a great future.

YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV
Source:
YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV

Unlike most other young girls, Grace has something that many think would stop her from achieving her dreams.

Grace has Down syndrome. Like 60,000 others in her home country of Britain and over 200,000 Americans, Grace is able to live with the disease and have a great life.

And, despite being only seven, she’s well on her way to achieving her career dreams!

Amazingly, Grace is an aspiring model. She has a celebrated screen presence and exudes confidence on the catwalk.

Grace’s career began when her parents saw a post on Facebook. The post asked for a model with disabilities to participate in a photo shoot.

The parents knew that Grace loved being the center of attention, so they decided to apply.

The family went to the audition shortly afterward.

Grace amazed the casting directors with her confidence and humor.

YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV
Source:
YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV

They realized that they had found the perfect match.

The initial photoshoot was a huge success and proved to be a stepping stone for greater things. She was booked for more and more shoots, with many companies loving her look and enthusiastic poses. Grace’s mom, Cheryl, explained:

“Within a very short time, Disney showed interest in her. And she has done work with [UK children’s TV channel] Cbeebies and the BBC.”

So, not only has Grace conquered the fashion industry, but she’s also getting into TV and the movies! Not bad for someone who still has most of her baby teeth!

This story shows that people need to address the stigmas associated with Down syndrome and similar conditions.

Even Grace’s parents, John and Cheryl Wharton, were upset when they discovered that their child had down syndrome. The mother said:

“When I first found out Grace was going to be born with Down syndrome, I was devastated. […] We got up the next morning and said she might have Down syndrome, but she is still going to be our baby.”

YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV
Source:
YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV

Luckily, John and Cheryl were quickly able to overcome their reservations and appreciate Grace. She then said,

“From that point on, we have just celebrated everything about her. She is incredible.”

If you need any more convincing that Grace should be accepted and treated like anyone else, then you should just look at how much she’s loved in school.

YouTube/Barcroft TV
Source:
YouTube/Barcroft TV

Everyone in Grace’s class loves her. In fact, her teacher says that she’s the most popular person there! Her classmates said:

“I like Grace because she always plays with me.”

“She is kind of sweet.”

“She helps and she gives the best cuddles.”

Anyone who encounters someone who thinks that people with Down syndrome are unfortunate or lesser than others should tell them about Grace’s story.

YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV
Source:
YouTube Screenshot/Barcroft TV

She’s only seven and has achieved more than most people manage in an entire lifetime!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Article Sources:
To learn more read our Editorial Standards.
Advertisement