Adults with intellectual disabilities are often viewed by some as “less than” as if somehow their disability makes them unable to contribute to society in a meaningful way.
Some countries are even determined to murder babies with Down syndrome, preventing them from being born.
But this man with Down syndrome silenced critics once and for all, with the amazing legacy and example he’s set forth, proving once and for all that individuals with Down syndrome can do great things.
And because of his sheer work ethic and good nature, he’s paved the way for other adults with Down syndrome to follow.
You see, one of the biggest misconceptions adults with Down syndrome face is the notion they are “leeching” from society, unable to contribute.
But nothing could be further from the truth.
And as Russell O’Grady, a 50-year old man with Down syndrome just revealed, adults with intellectual disabilities can go on to live perfectly typical lives.
At the age of 18, Russell started his career at McDonalds and worked faithfully for 32 years as an employee until he retired.
And during those 30 years, he led by example with hard work and determination.
VT reported:
“Russell began working at the McDonald’s branch back in 1986: a time when people with intellectual disabilities were uncommon in the workforce. Despite this, Russel was a pioneering employee, after he impressed his managers with his hard work packing party boxes.
Eventually, he was given other responsibilities in the restaurant, and has even performed duties in the kitchen.”
Russell O’Grady is a sweet and real-life example of how adults with Down syndrome can thrive if given the opportunity to succeed.
And as it turns out, Russell’s work ethic didn’t only help him move up the chain at McDonalds but also won the hearts of loyal customers who came in just to see him.
VT continued:
“McDonald’s supervisor Courtney Purcell claims that O’Grady has become something of a local celebrity in Northmead, stating: “We’ve got regular customers who come in to see Russell on Thursday and Friday, and the staff look after him, so we’re going to miss him.”
But even if Russell was not able to work, those who have Down syndrome still deserve the chance to be born.
A life is a life, regardless if the baby is diagnosed with an intellectual disability.
Pro-abort doctors try and scare women who may have a child with special needs to get an abortion so they don’t have to deal with the “burden” of raising a child who isn’t born “perfect.”
But Russell breaks the stereotype that those with intellectual disabilities are somehow less than.
However sadly, the battle to protect babies with special needs still rages on.
Some countries seek to eliminate babies with Down syndrome altogether.
And who could forget the tearful testimony from an adult male with Down syndrome who spoke on Capitol Hill begging people to value his life and those of others who have Down syndrome.
While some companies like Gerber have taken huge strides making the Gerber baby one with Down syndrome, we have a long way to go.
But stories like Russell continue to shatter stereotypes and show that every life matters, and if people are given the chance at life, they can achieve great things.
What are your thoughts on Russell working more than 30 years at McDonalds even though he has Down Syndrome?
Do you think adults with intellectual disabilities are marginalized and not given the same chance as other adults to succeed?
What do you think can be done to change the stereotype?
Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
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