DEBUNKING STEREOTYPES
STEREOTYPE: People with Down syndrome can not drive cars.
FACT: People with DS can pass driver’s license tests, own cars, and drive independently!
Often times, people with Down syndrome are denied opportunity to try new things because of negative perceptions and impossibility/fixed mindsets of those around them.
We celebrate parents and caregivers who gave them the opportunity to try. However, this is not to say a person’s worth is determined by this accomplishment.
National Down syndrome Society recorded Jay Nothagle as a person who passed the driver’s license test at 21. He owns his own truck and drives to work! He took longer to prepare for the test, though, yet he pulled through.
William Loughane, a special olympic gold medalist, received his Driver’s license in Ireland at the age of 26. William drives his Toyota Yaris to commute to his job.
John Marrs started his driver’s training classes at 15 and received his drivers permit, which allowed him to drive with an adult. At 18, he passed his driving tests and became a licensed driver!
Another example is Meredith Martin, a 24-year-old woman with Down syndrome who has her own apartment and has three jobs. She works at a local hospital, a grocery store, and an assisted living facility! Meredith has her driver’s license! She’s also active in her church and in several activities in her community.
NB This post was copied from an interesting research made by Rick Smith, Father to Noah, a young child with Down syndrome. Also note the key roles parents played in helping these amazing people break limits and attain milestones. I had seen the documentary of a young Nigerian with DS who earns a living driving.
Post credit:
Rick Smith. _Meet 7 People With Down Syndrome Who Have Gotten Their Driver’s License!_ October 23, 2013.
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