Cheerleader with Down Syndrome Inspires Team to National Championship

Like many of her classmates, Audrey Chisholm wanted to be a competitive cheerleader. But because the Illinois teen has Down Syndrome, she was told she could join the team but couldn’t participate in the state competitions. So, after searching for a more inclusive team, her parents connected with coach Christine O’Donnell of Mokena Burros Pop Warner.

“You’d think that everyone would be raising an eyebrow: ‘Is she going to help us win a second state championship, or is she going to pull us down?’” Audrey’s mother, Jody Chisholm, told the Chicago Tribune. “But I’ll tell you, we walked in, and within a day, all the girls were embracing Audrey, and they all wanted to be her friend. These girls mean so much to me, and they mean so much to Audrey.”

Since joining the Burros, Audrey has become an integral part of the team as a flier in the stunt group. And in December, the girl who was told she couldn’t compete was on the sport’s biggest stage competing for a National Championship at Disney World.

When it was all over, Audrey and her teammates were national champs.

“These 23 girls are going to be the leaders of tomorrow,” Chisholm said of Audrey’s teammates. “And they’re going to know what it’s like to have a friend with a disability and to be protective of them. Through these 23 girls, the world will be a better place.”

Audrey’s story is incredibly inspiring and one that was recognized by media outlets across the country -- from the Chicago Tribune to POPSUGAR and even NBC’s today.com!