My name is Brian Heffernan. I am just about to turn 24 years old, and I have an awesome life!

I worked really hard to make it happen, but I never could have done it without my family, education, and of course, the MDSC.

My parents learned that I have Down syndrome when I was
born and soon after they got involved in the MDSC. They loved
meeting other families that have a member with Down syndrome
and they got great advice from families whose kids had already
accomplished things I was working on. My parents especially
loved going to the annual MDSC conference, where they got
wonderful information.

Through the years, I have heard a lot of self-advocates, including John Anton, speak at MDSC events. It always makes me feel so proud and inspired. I too have become a self-advocate and disability awareness speaker, speaking at elementary schools and Boston-area colleges. I even spoke at a couple of conferences in Pennsylvania this year!

Now that I'm an adult, I'm a workingman! I work at the State House three days a week - for Rep. Kay Kahn, Senator Cynthia Creem, and Speaker Robert DeLeo. I do data entry and

paperwork, but my favorite part is attending briefs, hearings, and meetings, and I even do some lobbying for bills that benefit people with disabilities. By the way, I take public transportation to get to the State House.

I have a full and exciting life. I am grateful for my jobs and the opportunities I have had. However, I know that things haven't always been great for people with Down syndrome and I realize there's a long way to go. That's why I'm glad there's the MDSC. Everyone out there deserves the same kind of opportunities that I've had, and the MDSC will help to make that come true.

Please help support the MDSC and make a donation this holiday season. My parents think it is really important and so do my two younger sisters, Maggie and Evie. In fact, Maggie and Evie ran the Falmouth Road Race on Team MDSC this summer to raise money for the MDSC's programs.

Thank you,

Brian Heffernan

MDSC Self Advocate

PLEASE HELP BRIAN & OTHERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

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Every gift of any size helps! You can make a positive difference in the life of someone with Down syndrome today!

Support the MDSC and the real lives of people with Down syndrome, like Brian, and their families. Our mission is to advocate for the fullest life possible for every person with Down syndrome in Massachusetts, and we ask you to donate generously this season.

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