Hi there, my name is Brina Maxino.

I am many things –– athlete leader, teacher, public speaker. And I have Down Syndrome.

At 9 days old, a doctor said that I will not live long because my condition was very bad and I had a hole in my heart. I am now 25 and living my life to the fullest.

At 10 years old, a psychologist said that I would probably not finish grade school, because my IQ was very low. But, I graduated at the appropriate age of 16 from a regular high school, as the Class Valedictorian.

I graduated from college with 3 degrees: General Clerical Skills, Associate in Arts and a degree in History. And now, I am a Preschool Assistant Teacher. Because of my advocacy for inclusive education, I have been chosen as the United Nations UNESCO Champion for Inclusion in Education.

People with intellectual disabilities suffer rejection and ridicule every day because others think that we are not “good enough.” But, I am here today to tell you, that we are! That is why I am asking you to help Special Olympics continue to shatter stereotypes by empowering people like me who have Down Syndrome and other persons with intellectual disabilities during the Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

On behalf of the 5.7 million Special Olympics athletes around the globe, it is generous supporters like you, who help us spread the message of acceptance, respect, and inclusion. With your donation of $25 or more today, you can stand beside me to show the world that people with intellectual disabilities should be seen and heard. We can be useful members of society.

Donate today: specialolympics.org/DSAM

Thanks for standing with us, 

Brina Maxino
Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger