Girl With Down Syndrome Graduates High School... With Honors
November 17, 2017
Madison Essig, who was told at a young age that she'd never be able to read, has become the first student with Down Syndrome to graduate from a D.C. high school with a standard diploma.
Photo credit: Katherine Frey / The Washington Post
Madison not only graduated high school - she did it with honors. She graduated with an A-minus grade-point average and is now preparing to attend George Mason University.
Madison's family says she is sending an important message to the disability community.
"I'm just really proud that she can serve as a symbol for the Down syndrome community of hope and of promise and of the possibilities for kids who are following," her mother, Kimberly Templeton, said.
Madison is hoping to one day help children with disabilities.
"Don't give up!" Madison said in a local news interview. "This is your moment to shine! Don't let anything stand in your way."
Watch the video below.
Dogs Are Forced To Wear The Things They Steal — And It’s Hilarious
She Came To America With Almost Nothing — Now Her Diner Draws Crowds From Across The Country
A Woman Stepped Up When A Little Boy’s World Was Turned Upside Down
Man Visits Google Maps Pin Labeled 'Friendly Black Cat' And Finds Exactly What It Promised
Neighbor Steps In To Give Boy Without A Dad A Birthday To Remember
Sleepy Owl Discovered Resting On Shelf Inside New York Antique Store
This ‘Sloth-Like’ Lab Failed Guide Dog Training — And Found His True Calling
She Secretly Left Outfits For An Elderly Couple's Porch Goose… Then A Package Arrived That Left Her In Tears
Giant Sea Serpent Appears On Cabo Beach
Every Night I Watch My Neighbor's Dog Go Upstairs To Bed Like This
Viral Video Shows Mom’s Priceless Reaction When ‘Airbnb’ Turns Out To Be Daughter’s Home
