A child born with Down syndrome faces more than just the possibility of delayed developmental milestones, being at risk for health problems like congenital heart defects and mental disorders, and intellectual disability. He or she, from day one, is already more vulnerable to discrimination and ignorant remarks from people who refuse to educate themselves on the genetic disorder. This does not mean, however, that our society is a generally discriminatory one. In fact, most communities go the extra mile to make life as easy and enjoyable as possible for those born with Down syndrome.
Spencer Kirkpatrick of Jackson, Mississippi, was born with Down syndrome. At ten weeks old, he had to undergo open heart surgery. Both factors prompted teachers and doctors to warn his father that Spencer might have quite a challenging experience in school. Down syndrome may affect one’s physical growth and development, as well as cognitive ability, but most individuals born with it prove that these aren’t limitations to what they can do.
Kevan Kirkpatrick, Spencer’s father, believes his son is just as capable as everyone else. “He has always adapted with his challenges. We’ve also been fortunate to be surrounded by people that adapt with him.” His unwavering belief in his son’s abilities, coupled with the support and encouragement of those around them, enable Spencer to defy the limits society sets on people born with Down syndrome. Kevin also shares how a friend wisely put things in perspective. “My friend Shannon Johnston, taught me that when someone like Spencer comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself and it comes in the way other people treat that person.”
Back in 2016, Spencer defied odds by graduating from Tupelo High School where he was an active student, even assisting his gym teacher with the swim team. Graduating high school took him a step closer to achieving his goal of attending a good college.
With strong admiration for his brother, Harris, Spencer always expressed his desire to go to college. Kevan also shares how Spencer grew up attending collegiate basketball and football games with him – another reason for Spencer’s eagerness to experience the college life.
Spencer did more than just tick off an item from his list of goals. He got accepted into MSU’s ACCESS program – a non-degree, four-year program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Throughout his college journey, he managed to consistently surprise mentors and classmates with all that he had to offer, including active participation in intramural sports like football. Spencer never hesitated to jump in and join. He was so happy and comfortable in college that he always did what he wanted with such ease and happiness.
Susannah Cox, Spencer’s mentor and friend, said it was hard for the other students not to love Spencer. He showed enthusiasm in all his classes and inspired others to adopt the same outlook towards learning.
Spencer’s dynamic personality and school spirit made him so well-liked that he was elected homecoming king by his fellow MSU students.
His mentor and friend also shares, “Whenever we pulled up to the Union, everyone was coming up to him saying that they hoped he won and they were so excited for him. I was kind of nervous because I really wanted him to win and I knew in the bottom of my heart that he did win, but I still had that little bit of fear.”
One of Spencer’s friends from MSU, Meredith McLaurin, expressed her support for Spencer’s decision to run for homecoming king. “Him running for homecoming king gives me hope in every sense. He’s making a difference not only on our campus but for countless other kids around the world.”
It was during the homecoming game that Spencer and the elected homecoming queen, Rachel Dumke, were recognized for their win.
Kevan’s support, love, and encouragement, was always Spencer’s springboard. It equipped with him with the confidence he needed to reach for his goals and achieve them one by one. It also helps that throughout his college experience, Spencer’s peers and mentors made sure he had a positive and warm environment in which he could thrive.
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