Central Texas girl’s picture to run in Times Square celebrating down syndrome
TROY, Texas (KWTX) - Soon, millions of people will see a local girl’s face go on one of the world’s most popular platforms, Times Square.
The National Down Syndrome Society handpicked eight-year-old Kelsey Killen of Troy to represent what it means to push for inclusion.
Her mother, Meghan, said she’s blessed Kelsey was picked out of 2,600 people.
Killen said Kelsey was born prematurely, dealt with heart issues and is diagnosed with cystic fibrosis that affects the lungs.
However, family members knew she would always be a star.
“When I found out she had down syndrome, I mean we were told there’s no quality of life, which is terrifying. So, we had her and just took one day at a time. Then we realized how sassy she is,” said Killen.
Then, Kelsey turned into Miss Sassy Pants, it’s what she’s known by on social media.
She shares the daily moments of her world while spreading awareness.
“I love when the kids ask questions because they don’t know and they’re all about figuring out why she’s not talking. It’s just opened a completely different world,” said Killen.
Killen said the down syndrome community has helped with the many chapters of Kelsey’s journey.
Thus, she decided to enter Kelsey’s picture into the annual National Down Syndrome Society Times Square Video presentation.
It celebrates down syndrome with the presentation showing over 500 people with the condition of all ages.
“I screamed, I definitely screamed. I don’t think I told anyone except for the photographer for about a day. I sent it to Amanda and was like, ‘Hey your picture was selected for Times Square.’ it was exciting.”
Killen said Kelsey is a testament of beating the odds and living in her truth.
She hopes it reassures parents who have kids with down syndrome that it’s just a journey but with a different path.
“It’s not scary as people think it is. Despite medical issues there’s nothing extra you’ll have to do. It’s not as terrifying as people make it out to be,” said Killen.
The slideshow will begin running September 6 in Times Square.
There will be a livestream on the National Down Syndrome Society’s Facebook page.
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