October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to celebrate people with Down syndrome, recognize their accomplishments, and continue advocating for inclusion and equal opportunities.
At Dr. Noze Best, supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families is an important part of our mission. We support organizations working to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome, including the National Down Syndrome Congress, and believe everyone deserves to feel supported, included, and empowered to pursue their goals.
In this month’s Moments with Martha, Martha shares what Down syndrome means to her, what helps her feel supported at work, and the message she hopes families take away from her story.
Ask Martha: A Q&A
Q: What does Down syndrome mean to you?
My Name is Martha and I am a young women with Down syndrome! For me, Down syndrome is a big part of my identity. Ability is much more important than disability, and ability should always come first. There is no shame in being different, and no one should feel that their disability can hold them back from being who they are.
I refuse to be held back. I will charge forward. I don’t run down. I run up!
Q: What’s something you’re proud of that you’d like others to know about?
I love public speaking, and it makes me so proud that my speech was chosen for the closing ceremony at my first Best Buddies Leadership Conference in 2025.
I spoke about inclusion, Medicaid expansion, Best Buddies community housing, and being social in the community. I shared my own journey, had support, and I felt extremely comfortable being up on that podium and using my voice to make an impact.
It gives me so much adrenaline to stand up for what it takes to make the most impactful change happen.
Q: What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am a huge fan of Broadway musicals and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. I especially love Olivia Benson because the actress who plays her also uses her advocates for women's rights and people with disabilities.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from working at Dr. Noze Best?
My favorite memory was when we raced around in cars on a racetrack near the airport at a team outing! I also love the Big Game Ball and using my very own NozeBot!
Q: What makes you feel supported at work?
I feel supported when tasks are broken down with specific directions I can understand. It also helps me to have visuals because I am a visual learner.
Visuals give me a resource so I can try things myself before asking for help.
Q: What do you hope families get from hearing your story?
I want families to know that they should lean into their resources and ask for help.
Having an intellectual disability can come with challenges, but we all deserve to have a family, feel loved and supported, and have special moments together, including during the holidays. No one should have to go through neglect or abuse. Families deserve support, and we can advocate for resources that help families stay safe and supported.
Martha’s Message: Inclusion and Support Matter
Martha’s story is a reminder that people with Down syndrome have their own goals, interests, talents, and ambitions. With the right support and opportunities, they can use their voices, build meaningful relationships, pursue careers, and make a difference in their communities.
This Down Syndrome Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to celebrate the contributions of people with Down syndrome, listen to their experiences, and continue working toward a world where everyone has the opportunity to feel included, supported, and valued.
