Oklahoma baby with Down syndrome to be featured in Times Square video
Charlie Layne Leggett, a 16-month-old baby girl from Oklahoma City, has been chosen to represent the Down syndrome community in a special video presentation by the National Down Syndrome Society in Times Square.
The annual event features a one-hour video showcasing approximately 500 photographs of children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from all 50 states, promoting their value, acceptance, and inclusion.
Despite facing stiff competition with over 2,400 entries, Charlie's photo stood out and will be displayed, on two Jumbotron screens above Dos Caminos restaurant in Father Duffy Square.
Her parents say that while their 16-month-old has been a fixture of campaigns in and around the state, her diagnosis came as a new journey for the first-time parents.
"Having Charlie, we got a birth diagnosis of Down syndrome, which means we did not know Charlie was going to have Down syndrome before. So it was a surprise to us," said Charlie's mother, Natalie Leggett. "She is our world, and having a new perspective on life because of who Charlie is, has been such a joy
The NDSS, founded in 1979, is dedicated to empowering individuals with Down syndrome and their families through policy change, resources, community engagement, and shifting public perceptions. They support individuals with Down syndrome in various aspects of life, including education, employment, health and wellness, and aging.
Natalie's father currently serves on the board of the association, and the family actively participates in various events, including photoshoots for the Oklahoma Down syndrome calendar.
The Times Square Video presentation will be live-streamed on the NDSS Facebook page from 9:30-10:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 9.
"It was surreal," Natalie Leggett said. "We're just excited that Charlie's going to be a part of something that shows how awesome kids and adults with Down syndrome actually are."
The event also serves as the kickoff for the New York City Buddy Walk, which will take place at the Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park. The Buddy Walk program, established in 1995 by NDSS, symbolizes Down syndrome awareness, advocacy, and fundraising. Buddy Walk events are held nationwide and in select international locations.
The National Buddy Walk Program, a flagship initiative of NDSS, aims to raise awareness and funds for the Down syndrome community. With approximately 150 Buddy Walk events taking place nationwide and in select international locations, the program promotes acceptance and inclusion.
To find a Buddy Walk event near you, or to learn more about the New York City Buddy Walk and the National Buddy Walk Program, visit www.ndss.org.visit https://ndss.org/national-buddy-walk-program.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC baby with Down syndrome featured in Times Square video
