John C. McGinley, 2011 Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award Recipient

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• Category

  Nonprofits & Activism

[Opey Russ]

"If we gauge intelligence by one’s performance on a test or the depth and breadth of one’s vocabulary or one’s mathematical or scientific comprehension then by that standard, people with Down Syndrome may fall short. However, if we gauge intelligence by one’s grasp of humanity, then they far surpass us all."

[Opey Russ]

When Randy meets someone, he doesn’t care what they do for a living or how much money they make. He doesn’t care about politics or what religion they follow. He doesn’t care if they are tall or short; fat or thin; pretty or plain; He harbors no hatred, animosity or prejudice. He cares about the living beating heart in their chest and a warm strong embrace. He cares about family, friends, good music, food, laughter and love. He may not have a 140 IQ, but he is an expert at being human."

[Opey Russ]

My Brother Randy has Down Syndrome and I wrote a book about growing up with a sibling with Down Syndrome and the challenges my parents faced in educating and raising him. I love the part in this video when John says that Max is "Uber" in the moment. That is so like Randy. Thanks John and Max and the whole McGinley family for your love and advocacy!

Opey Russ