Living life to the fullest
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When it comes to taking every opportunity and living life to the fullest - Rachael Bullock is a champion.
The 28-year-old Tillsonburg woman graduated from Glendale High School seven years ago and now works at Tim Horton’s.
Like many young woman, she enjoys spending time with friends and family and has a passion for hobbies such as reading, country music, scrapbooking and travelling. It may sound like a page from an ordinary, everyday life but Bullock is anything but ordinary.
Rachael was born with Down syndrome. But she hasn’t let that or anything else stop her from enjoying a productive and fulfilling life.
“I wash the tables and restock the food. I have worked there for over seven years,” said Bullock in a recent interview. “I like meeting people.”
This Thursday, March 21, 2013 is World Down Syndrome Day and is held on 3/21 to symbolize a third copy of the 21st chromosome in people with Down syndrome. World Down Syndrome Day is an opportunity for people in communities around the world to recognize and celebrate contributions made by people, like Bullock.
World Down Syndrome Day was officially ratified by the United Nations in 2012.
Despite challenges, Bullock is happy to have the chance to live a complete life.
“I have a job and I work out. I go to Curves,” she said. “And on Tuesdays in the morning I work (volunteer) at the food bank.”
Bullock is no stranger to keeping busy or being involved in her community. She said she enjoys giving back and contributing to her town, and feels good knowing that she too, can make a difference in people’s lives in Tillsonburg.
One of her strengths lies in her sensitivity to other people with Down syndrome and her ability to show compassion to them. Bullock is known to go out of her way to make them all feel included and accepted.
Rachael’s mother Wendy is proud of her daughter’s accomplishments, determination and the positive attitude that she puts forth each and every day.
“If you give a sense of confidence and a sense that they are able to learn, they will,” she said. “Everybody has issues, everybody has limitations, but I think with love and compassion and the community support, they will grow to their full potential.”
That’s exactly what Rachael Bullock wants people to know about those who have Down syndrome - that those like herself, living with the chromosomal condition, can still be an active part of the community and lead a satisfying life.
“We’re all different but we can all be loved,” Bullock said with a smile.
Some facts about Down syndrome:
-Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics often associated with Down syndrome.
-Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
-It is estimated that approximately 6 million people worldwide live with the chromosomal condition today.
-Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 years in 1983 to 60 years of age today.