This is a special speech that Lily shared with her tutor class as a way to celebrate World Down Syndrome day on 21st March. The students and staff in the Learning Support Centre also wore crazy socks to support this day.

My name is Lily Piper Nichols, and I have Down Syndrome. Some people think that because I have Down Syndrome I am not smart. But let me tell you, I am one smart cookie! In fact, I am probably smarter that some of my teachers here! Just kidding, teachers, I love you!

Sometimes, people don’t know how to talk to me because they think I am different. But really, we are all different in our own way. Some of you are tall, some of you are short, some of you have brown hair, some of you have blonde hair, but we are all special in our own way.

One think that I really love to do is to make people laugh. Did you hear about the guy who invented Lifesavers? He made a mint! I love telling jokes, even if sometimes I forget the punchline.

But seriously, I think it is important for us to remember to always be kind to one another. We should treat each other with respect, no matter what. Because at the end of the day, we are all human beings, and we all deserve love and kindness.

So, I want to challenge all of you to do something kind for someone else today. Maybe it is giving a compliment or inviting them to join a game, or just saying hello to someone who looks lonely. Let’s all work together to make our school a kind and happy place for everyone.

Thank you and remember, always keep smiling!