The world can sometimes have a negative perception of people who have Down syndrome. However, that hasn’t stopped gymnast with down syndrome Chelsea Werner from pursuing her dreams. From being a model to being a champion at the Special Olympics, she’s showing the world that there is beauty in diversity.
Chelsea Werner first started practicing gymnastics when she was 8. Her parents encouraged her to try different sports, but they knew that gymnastics would be her passion. From the start, she was able to show her talent for the sport and began to improve rapidly. Chelsea’s hard work and perseverance paid off as she became a champion in the Special Olympics.
She now trains at Chattooga Gymnastics and Dance in Marietta, Georgia. During her training, she works to perfect her routines on a variety of equipment, including vault, balance beam and floor exercise. Her parents and brother are her greatest support system as they help her practice and prepare for competitions. She is also aided by her coach, who understands her abilities and treats her like any other athlete. She has won the US Special Olympics National Gymnastics Championship four times and the Down Syndrome International Gymnastics Championship twice.
After competing in various competitions, she started to gain attention as a model and a spokesperson for the Special Olympics. She has been featured in campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Target and Forbes. Her Instagram account has over 10,000 followers and she uses it to share happy moments in her life and encourage others with disabilities. She often writes captions such as “Different is beautiful” and “Love yourself”.
Jesse Jimenez has been a competitive gymnast for eight years. He competes in the United States for both artistic and rhythmic gymnastics. He also runs track, plays baseball and golfs, but gymnastics is his favorite sport. His family credits the Special Olympics for boosting his confidence. They believe it’s because they are applauded for their performance and not judged for his disability.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition. People are born with 23 pairs of chromosomes. Chromosomes carry the genes that give you your inherited traits. When a person has Down syndrome, they have an extra copy of chromosome 21. There are several types of Down syndrome, but trisomy 21 is the most common type and makes up 95% of all cases.
While there are some health issues that are more common in people with Down syndrome, everyone should have regular health checks to ensure they are living a healthy lifestyle. For more information, visit the health section of our website. You can also find help and support from local Down syndrome associations or call the National Down Syndrome Society. They can also refer you to a physician who can assist you.
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