Sessions Receives National Leadership Award from National Down Syndrome Society

U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-Dallas) received a national leadership award last night from the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) as the Honoree of the National Down Syndrome Society’s Annual Gala in New York City and in recognition of his leadership in Congress on issues affecting individuals with disabilities.

As the parents of a son with Down syndrome, Congressman Sessions and his wife, Nete, were pleased to attend this event, which highlights the accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome and supports Down syndrome education, advocacy programs, and research.

“I am honored to receive a national leadership award from NDSS, with whom I have often partnered to promote opportunities for people with Down syndrome,” stated Sessions.

“My son, Alex, who has Down syndrome, has brought such joy to my home and community,” Sessions continued, “and his enthusiasm for life and learning inspires me daily to work diligently to ensure that he and other people with disabilities have the resources and opportunities to realize their potential.”

Congressman Sessions was honored for his record as a passionate advocate on behalf of people with Down syndrome as well as other disabilities. Beginning in 2000, he worked tirelessly to pass the Family Opportunity Act, which gives states the option to create a Medicaid “buy in” for families of children with disabilities whose family income or resources are up to 300% of federal poverty level. Signed into law in 2006, this landmark legislation fixes the Medicaid ‘Catch-22’ that forces many families to make difficult choices, like foregoing a needed pay increase, just to qualify for Medicaid assistance.

In addition to his leadership with disability issues on Capitol Hill, Sessions works in his district to support other parents of special needs children and has led numerous forums on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), helping parents understand the opportunities for their child’s educational development.

Sessions has also played a central role in supporting Down syndrome medical research at the National Institutes of Health as well as in the private sector. As a board member of Best Buddies International and Advisor to the President for Special Olympics Texas, he continues to work for increased development and social participation for individuals with disabilities.

“I look forward to working with NDSS in the future to support educational opportunities, financial resources, and leading-edge research that will provide people with disabilities and their families with the tools they need for success in life,” Sessions concluded.

The National Down Syndrome Society’s Gala was held on November 14, 2007 at The Lighthouse in New York City. Over 400 business and community leaders as well as parents of parents of people with Down syndrome attended. For more information, please visit www.ndss.org.