Today we’re going to visit a self-advocate who leads by example. John Tucker from Born This Way on A&E proves, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Down syndrome is nothing to be afraid of. He does it by lovin’ life and showing us how it should be done!
From the very first episode, John won my heart.
“The doctors asked her if she wanted to have a abortion of me.”
“Even though I’m Down syndrome it didn’t really matter because my mother she said no. I’m gonna keep this child. This is my son we’re actually talking about. She sacrificed and she kept me. I could be out there dead. Your parents had gave birth to you. They wanted you as their own child. They love you. They care for you and everything you have now is very special. I’m here. I’m alive. I’m human. And that’s what we need to know. We’re all humans. We have to like, just, stick together, and stay together, and be the person that we are cause that’s what God made us to be.” – John Tucker, Season 1 Episode 1 “Up syndrome”
Don’t we all wish we could have that kind of self-awareness and positive attitude?
My favorite quote from season 2 happened during a disagreement among the friends. Faithful viewers have commented on how the seven young adults are so adept at talking through their problems and supporting each other. At a party that appeared on the show, John expressed his thoughts on why their actions on camera were so important.
John takes his work, acting and rapping, seriously – and you can tell he enjoys every minute of it. These qualities make him a fantastic self-advocate.
For more information on JT and how you can watch his rap video, order his CD, or download his latest single, hop over to DOWNs Town Mall today!