Frank Stephens of Fairfax at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s AcceptAbility Gala in D.C. Photo contributed
Fairfax’s Frank Stephens, an advocate and author with Down syndrome who received a standing ovation this year when he testified in front of Congress about the need for more NIH research funding, spoke at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s AcceptAbility Gala in D.C. on Thursday, May 17.
He delivered a powerful message: “My life is my message. We give more than enough to earn our place in this world…We are a powerful source of happiness that the world can’t afford to set aside. We are DS and our lives are worth living.”
As a Global ambassador, Stephens has logged 38,000 hours over the past year in support of those with Down syndrome.
Stephens helped present awards to Reps. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.).for their support of increasing NIH research funding.
The gala evening raised more than $250K for research and life-saving medical care for children and adults with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is the most frequent chromosomal condition, affecting an estimated 400,000 Americans, but is one of the least-funded genetic conditions by the National Institutes of Health. Global is focused on raising funds to support research, educating the public about the importance of research funding, and showcasing the abilities of those with Down Syndrome.