Today Show Co-Host, Dateline NBC Correspondent and Author Hoda Kotb was honored at the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Annual Spring Luncheon Tuesday afternoon.
The inspiring event which raised an amazing $125,000 and donated to NDSS in support of this event, was held at 583 Park Avenue with 300 people including myself attending to celebrate people with Down syndrome and those who support them.
The afternoon’s delight was Jordyn Dannenbaum, a 20-year-old self-advocate with Down syndrome who recently completed her second year on campus at George Mason University, who received the Melissa Riggio Voices Award.
As Jordyn accepted her award she told the audience, “You have nothing to worry about. Just focus on what is in front of you and be positive. It is okay to make mistakes, but try to do the right thing and just believe in yourself.” She received a standing ovation for her inspiring remarks.
Wow.
NDSS Goodwill Ambassador and Actor Chris Burke, who played Corky on the TV series ‘Life Goes On‘, was present as well and worked the room like a real pro.
In her acceptance speech, Hoda Kotb spoke about overcoming obstacles and empowering oneself with that knowledge. Kotb quoted Mark Twain: “‘The two most important days in your life are the day you’re born, and the day you figure out why.’ A lot of us are still on a journey,” she said, “but in meeting the people in the room I can tell that many of you have already figured out why.”
What a great article…thanks Roz!!