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Karen Gaffney is an incredible local (Portland area) woman with down syndrome. I am leery of using adjectives like "incredible" for fellow disabled. People underestimate what we can do and shower us with flowery adjectives for just getting up in the morning and facing life. It does not matter what we do -- it's incredible!
I remember Karen's 2001 swim across the English Channel. No simple feat for anybody. It took grit and determination.
This month Karen took on a new challenge. I am moved that Down Syndrome does not need to be in the headline to make this a story: Local woman makes history with Lake Tahoe swim KATU - Portland, Oregon Local & Regional
A film is in the works. Here is a blog about a film documenting Karen's swim across Lake Tahoe.
And Karen is the president of a self-named foundation "dedicated to championing the journey to full inclusion in families, schools, communities and the workplace for people with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities."
Karen's newsletter tells about inclusive arts and exercise programs that she is involved in.
I see life and joy in her face. I admire her spirit.
Thank you Karen!
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I have the honour of being able to say that I have met Karen on several occasions and she truly is "incredible".
I agree that the fact that she has Down's Syndrome doesn't need to be in the headline for her fantastic achievement with this swim, especially when you know that she has undergone several surgeries to help her walk.
Where her Down's Syndrome really does need mentioning is in relation to her presentational skills, for this young lady is also a brilliant and inspirational speaker.
And on top of all of that, she is also a really nice, thoughtful and caring person who devotes her time to encouraging other people to achieve their full potential.
If you ask Karen why she does these things, she'll tell you it's becasue she can!
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