A touching story from the town of Cleethorpes has gained global recognition, as a photo of infant Effie was replayed on the iconic Jumbotron in New York’s Times Square. Born in March, the US-based National Down Syndrome Society selected Effie as one of the 500 individuals to feature in their international awareness campaign. The photograph, captured by local professional Sarah Foster, was showcased on Saturday – marking an important milestone in the family’s journey.
Effie’s mother, Lauren, referred to this event as a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity,’ forecasting it will stand as an extraordinary memory for Effie as she grows. While the family was unable to visit the occasion in person, they shared the joy together through a live online streaming. Lauren extended her appreciation for the massive backing she has received from the Down’s Syndrome community- a support she calls life-altering.
Effie, who made her entrance into the world at the Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby, has become a source of boundless joy for her parents, Lauren and Jordan. They treasure the backing they’ve acquired from other families and acknowledge the impactful positivity it has added to their lives.
Sarah Foster, the photographer responsible for photographing Effie, conveyed her pride in seeing her work presented on an international platform and having the opportunity to contribute to a campaign with such significant meaning. The purpose of the National Down Syndrome Society’s annual initiative is to underscore the uniqueness and worth of individuals living with Down’s syndrome.
This story was adapted from original reporting by www.bbc.com by The Lincoln Post.