No matter where you live, it should be common to celebrate diversity and distinctive variations among people. How monotonous would it be if everyone had the same appearance and behavior?

Numerous initiatives to increase diversity have been launched in recent years. The general message is clear: someone who deviates from “the standard” is no less capable of amazing achievements than anyone else. It is true that some industries have done better than others.

Ask Kennedy Garcia, a girl with Down syndrome who received institutionalization advice from medical professionals. Doctors in Colorado Springs informed Kennedy’s mother that due to her Down syndrome, her daughter would have a very poor quality of life as an adult. They worried that she could need to use diapers as an adult and thought it would be best for her if she was put in a facility with specialized care so she could live in peace.

Kennedy’s mother, Renee Kennedy, made the decision to dismiss everyone from the hospital room. She insisted vehemently that she would not leave her child, and time has shown that she was right. Since then, Kennedy has participated in contests held at the state level and modeled for prestigious companies all around the country. She also overcame leukemia while fighting cancer with a steely determination and unwavering tenacity.

“I was only given a terrible, depressing picture painted by doctors and nurses who had no idea what my child’s future held, so I was heartbroken to learn Kennedy had the condition the night she came,” said Renee.

“I didn’t feel any hope until a great nurse informed me Kennedy was beautiful and resembled her daughter, who also had the condition, the following night.”

“I asked her whether her daughter could walk because I didn’t know what the condition meant, and she just laughed. She had a sixteen-year-old daughter who could naturally walk.”

Kennedy has shown that obstacles can be overcome. She is represented by KMR Diversity and Dream Talent Management, and she has modeled for Justice Clothing and American Girl. She routinely makes the trip to Los Angeles and New York to attend casting calls for movies and modeling gigs, but she prefers to hang out with her boyfriend Matthew, who also has Down syndrome.

Regarding the doctors who wished to have Kennedy committed to a mental institution, Renee only has one opinion. It was 15 years ago, so it’s astounding how ignorant everyone was, she said. I regret wasting time mourning for things like prom dress shopping because I was led to believe that none of the expected milestones would be reached.

In order to educate students of all ages about Down syndrome and how they may support those who have it, Renee and Kennedy have started going to schools. Kennedy is rapidly building a social media following; as of right now, she has more than 130,000 Instagram followers. Renee said, “We’re all extremely proud of her and everything she’s done. We are all so lucky to have her in our lives since she is an outstanding young woman.”

This inspiring tale highlights the importance of remaining positive in the face of difficulty and tells the inspiring tale of a young girl who refused to let anything stand in her way. We are amused by Kennedy’s story and wish her luck in the future.

Watch Kennedy’s incredibly inspirational story in the clip below!