(The Chris Series 6/12: Katie/Sister)

(The Chris Series 6/12: Katie/Sister)

"Chris and I were really close growing up. I delayed going to college for a couple years. I said it was because Chris wasn’t ready for me to leave, but really I wasn’t ready to leave Chris. I went to school in NYC. Came home for the first time that year for Christmas. I called to let him know I was coming home and asked him what he wanted for Christmas and he said without hesitation, ‘a hug!’ Now, I was working for the women's basketball team at my university and their reaction to overhearing our conversation was priceless (they didn’t know who Chris was)- they said, ‘what the heck all he wants is a hug? I would have asked for a playstation or jordans.’ After hanging up the phone with Chris I got the chance to explain to my teammates who Chris is and what he means to me. My brother exudes genuine love. He is a dream. He is a breath of fresh air, a bright light in a dark room. The team certainly teared up and began to realize life is a lot bigger than material things.

I am the person I am today because of my little brother Christopher. His genuine love and care for others has inspired me to look for the best in all people. Because of him, I started a nonprofit empowering persons with intellectual disabilities through fitness and health. I absolutely love working and hanging out with Chris each and every day, even though he fires me daily and even tries to kick me out of my own office."

#ThisIsDownSyndrome #TheLuckyFew