Being a model isn’t easy for anyone, but Madeline Stuart, an Australian teen with Down syndrome, was up for the challenge. Despite a lack of encouragement from her doctor, Maddy worked hard to drop an impressive 44 pounds and found support in the indie brand Living Dead. The brand prides itself on diversity, and to them, Maddy is a perfect fit. She’s also in the process of hiring a modeling agent.
“I think it is time people realized that people with Down syndrome can be sexy and beautiful,” said Maddy’s mother, Roseanne. “She really wants to change the way people discriminate against disability.” Well, Maddy, you’re on your way to doing just that. Check out the pictures of the beautiful girl who proves that no one can tell you what you can or can’t do.