Hollywood Popular Artists

Jan 16th 2013, 23:35

Oh my cuteness alert! Kara Marcum, 19, may have Down Syndrome but her local Tennessee high school has fallen in love with her glowing personality. Looking past what many don't, her school's basketball team nominated her for Bolivar Central High School homecoming queen -- and she won!

This was the first time in history that this school's crown has been awarded to a student with Down Syndrome. Rocking sparkly black TOMS and a black dress to match, Kara accepted her award with the biggest smile imaginable. Such amazing lessons for all of us!!! Firstly, never let your obstacles get in the way of going after your biggest dreams! Second, ever ever ever judge a book by its cover. Everyone deserves to be treated equally regardless of sex, race, gender, ability, appearance... Okay, okay, I am not the Dalai Lama but don't you agree? We love Kara!

Kara has been through so much already at such a young age. Her mom revealed, "She has a heart condition. She had surgery when she was three and a half months old to correct the heart condition and we weren't given much hope she was going to be here today." And today, she's a homecoming queen! Watch below.

+ Watch Kara Get Crowned Homecoming Queen

There are seriously so many misconceptions when it comes to Down Syndrome. From the use of the r-word to dismissing those with DS as less than average, not being educated about it can lead to some very hurtful actions. We applaud the men's basketball team for overlooking her Down Syndrome and embracing her potential. Want to do your part? Take action below. *group hug*

Media files:
Kara-Post.jpg (image/jpeg)
Kara-Feature-70x53.jpg (image/jpeg)