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When some people look at me, all they see is Down syndrome. But I want people to know that I am so much more than that.
What does a day in the life of Madison look like?
Lately, it seems like I’ve been experiencing new and exciting things every day! Since the Assume That I Can video went viral, I’ve been spending my days talking to different media outlets all around the world. It’s been incredible! A regular day for me isn’t so regular anymore! I try to stick to my routine if I can. I always get my 10,000 steps in. I love to spend time with my friends and family and I love to go out to parties and dinners! Since I started content creating, I also get to spend time making videos for social!
Just like anyone else, I get tired when I work long days. I always use music to hype me up! I think my biggest challenge is when people assume I can’t do things. I sometimes get treated like I can’t do things or like I’m a little kid. It’s one more reason why the Assume That I Can campaign was so important.
Congratulations on your successful career. How did your professional journey begin?
When I was around 12 years old, I started taking singing and acting lessons. I love music and I love singing and I wanted to practice and get better at something I love.
My singing teacher recorded a video of me performing “All of Me” by John Legend and she decided to put it online. It went viral! After that, I got so many opportunities! It really opened doors up for me and everything just kept coming after that.
When I was born, the doctor told Mom and Dad that life would be hard for me. He told them that I may never talk, I may never walk, and I may never be able to hold a job. He imagined a very different life than the one I am living right now.
If that’s something a doctor can say, then imagine . . .
How did you get involved with the Assume I Can campaign? What does this kind of work mean to you?
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) reached out and told me that CoorDown and the Small Agency were shooting a new campaign for World Down Syndrome Day and that I should send in a self-tape, so I did! When I found out I got it, I was so excited but had no idea what to expect.
We shot in Barcelona and that was amazing. The crew and everyone on set were so encouraging and so nice. I had no idea that I was going to be the main star for the whole ad! The response has been overwhelming in the best way and seeing the impact it’s made on so many people, has been incredible. We still have a lot of work to do for people with disabilities, but this was a big step in the right direction!
Every great individual has a great support system. Who has been there for you throughout your journey?
So many people! First off, my Mom, Dad and sister. I wouldn’t have come this far without them. My friends, my extended family, all of the people at NDSS, Best Buddies and Dear Mom. I’ve met so many amazing people along my journey and everyone has had a part in helping me! Most importantly, everyone in my family has always treated me just like everyone else.
What advice would you give to other aspiring actors and models living with down syndrome or other disabilities?
When some people look at me, all they see is Down syndrome. But I want people to know that I am so much more than that. Down syndrome is the least interesting thing about me.
I don’t think that any person is just ONE thing. We are all made up of so many different things and that’s what makes us uniquely special. I always like to remind everyone that they are not defined by what other people think they are. So I say, be who YOU know you are. Go after the things you love and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t!
What is one word that best describes you?
Just one? There’s so many! If I have to choose, I’d say: Passionate. I love the work I do, I love my family and friends. I love listening to music and travelling and everything I do, I put my whole heart into it.
