When Abby entered the world, not many people gave her a chance. Born at 29 weeks, one of triplets, she battled the challenges of both prematurity and a heart defect, something common in babies with Down syndrome. One doctor said if she survived, she’d be a “vegetable.” This wasn’t the 1950s – it was 2003.
Fast forward 22 years, and here’s Abby running the 100-meter dash for her Unified Track team and playing a lead role in an adaptive musical. She was a varsity cheerleader, sang in the choir and went to prom in high school. As she transitions into adulthood, she’s working as an aide in the preschool she attended – alongside the same wonderful teacher who embraced her years ago. And she’s a TikTok dance queen with killer moves.
This stuff wouldn’t be possible without the work of The Arc of Indiana – and the people who have advocated for change and inclusion for the last 70 years. The pioneers who fought to keep people with disabilities out of institutions, who challenged rigid perceptions and battled for inclusion in schools. The people who keep pushing for more progress — and holding the line on not going backwards.
Without The Arc, people like Abby wouldn’t have had early intervention services as a young child, which were critical to her speech and physical development. She wouldn’t have had the right to a free and appropriate public education, much less all the inclusive opportunities at Fishers High School. She wouldn’t have access to Medicaid Waiver services that help her continue to grow and engage as an active member of our community. Instead, we’ve been blessed with opportunities she’s had to be included just like everyone else.
There are many people who have helped Abby thrive – doctors, teachers, coaches, friends, the people in her life. And there are others we’ve never met, yet owe a huge thanks for your hard work, advocacy and love for people with disabilities. Thank you to all who have made such an impact over these 70 years. Thank you to the people of The Arc.
Thanks to Abby’s dad, Scott, for sharing Abby’s story. Do you have a story to share on how The Arc has impacted you? Click here to use a simple form to send your story to us as we continue to celebrate our 70th anniversary!