One of the most amazing things that ever happened to me was getting a swimming pool from the Make-a-Wish Foundation. That’s when I found out how much I LOVE swimming. And guess what? In 2024, I won my first gold medal in the Special Olympics! I was so happy! I got to go to the Capitol for Down syndrome Day on the Hill. I met with lawmakers and talked about how important it is to support kids like me. It made me feel proud. When I grow up, I want to be a baby nurse like my mom. I LOVE babies! If I see a baby, I want to play with it, feed it, or even change its diaper. They make me so happy.

Hutch Hampton is our extra special son, born with Down Syndrome and Congenital Heart Disease. He has forced us to slow down, celebrate the small victories, and embrace each day with joy & intentionality. Hutch has climbed some very steep mountains and is the most resilient little boy. He is only 2.5 years old but has already been through five open heart surgeries, ten heart catheterizations, and several other surgeries & procedures. Most of the first year and a half of his life was spent in the hospital.  His medical challenges have been the hardest part to adjust to, but Hutch is worth it.  Hutch loves to read books, dance to music, and interact with people.  We're so thankful that we have found a community where his down syndrome diagnosis is supported and celebrated! Hutch has reframed what it means to have courage, patience, grace, and hope. He makes us honored to be a part of the lucky few!

Clara Midgett was born at 26 weeks. Her first five years included a lot of medical challenges, this also included a diagnosis of severe Autism at age three.  Many professionals did not think Clara would ever accomplish simple goals. Clara has proven them wrong more than once.

Clara’s dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism prevents her from being able to communicate orally. This has not stopped her! She is loved by her friends and family and is exceeding goals every day. She is an accomplished writer and will be graduating high school with a regular diploma in 2025. Her mom, Anara, states she would have graduated earlier, but likes to work on her own time. Clara refused to do her geometry last year, so now is working to make up her last half credit. Her younger brother, Alan, is also graduating and has asked if he could walk with her.

Clara was asked to write about herself for the DSAMT Spotlight award. Here is what she had to say:

Hannah is a funny, caring 23-year-old. She completed William Mason High School in 2020 and graduated from Vanderbilt University Next Steps in May, 2024. She is currently employed at the Nashville Children’s Theatre. Hannah has always been a trailblazer. Hannah participated in a TEDX event discussing the importance of inclusion at the high school level, was a first- time presenter at the National Down Syndrome Congress, and highlighted in the June 2020 issue of People magazine. At Vanderbilt, Hannah was a Think College Policy Advocate as well as the 2022 self- advocate of the year for the DSAMT. She served as a guest DJ on WSM radio on 3/21/2024, and has a poem published in the book: Creating Our Own Lives. On September 7, 2024 Hannah was part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society’s Times Square Video presentation in NYC.  Hannah will again serve as guest DJ on WSM Radio to promote Down syndrome awareness month on October 15, 2024 at 4:00pm.

Jake is a fun loving 10-year-old going into 5th grade this fall at College Grove Elementary. Jake participated in his first Special Olympics this year, where he BROKE THE RECORD for the longest softball throw in Williamson County. His entire school cheered him on when he received this news!

Jake loves going to school and seeing all of friends! His favorite class is PE. He is the best brother to Ben (15) and Carter (7). They are his best friends and biggest fans.

Jake’s hobbies include playing sports like basketball and soccer. He loves listening to music, dancing, swimming and driving his four-wheeler and go-cart. He also enjoys watching YouTube videos and would like to one day create his own channel.