A little boy from the Highlands has been named as one of 29 global ambassadors to represent a charity aiming to change the way the world views Down Syndrome.
Odhrán McLafferty, of Muir of Ord, was chosen to represent Nothing Down who provide support and opportunities for individuals and families that have been touched by Down syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21.
Their aim is to eliminate the stigmas that are often associated with disabilities.
The organisation produces documentaries, viral photo and video projects, an annual calendar, and social media campaigns that highlight the promise and beauty of individuals with Down Syndrome with the aid of their ambassadors.
Proud parents Martin and Aoife McLafferty said: “Odhrán is a bubbly, chatty, dramatic toddler. He is 19 months and we have enjoyed each moment of his life.
“He amazes us each moment of every day with all that he can do and what he has achieved. He loves to play with his two dogs and go for walks with his mammy and daddy.
“However, the biggest love of his life is food, which all started when we went on holidays to Italy. It’s safe to say that he makes his mammy feel like a Michelin-star chef.”
Odhrán is signed to the UK modelling agency company Zebedee Management and has appeared in the 2018 calendar for the Wouldn’t Change a Thing awareness group in the UK, and has also appeared in The Wouldn’t Change a Thing book by Celebrate T21 2019.
His parents added: “Odhrán is loved by everyone he meets and continues to hold an audience whenever we go out, even if it’s just to the shops! His smile is infectious and he is also a big flirt which helps him get his own way most of the time.
“His smile and laugh lights up the room and he uses his whole body to smile.
“Odhrán recently became a big brother and has taken the role in his stride. He has begun to show his caring side and wants to comfort baby whenever he starts to cry. It has also brought Odhrán along developmentally as he has become more chatty and confident.
“Odhrán is a fabulous little boy and we are excited he is to represent Nothing Down as a 2020 ambassador as we as a family see Trisomy 21 as something to be celebrated, and not feared.
“Our kids with Down Syndrome are amazing and Odhrán is just beating all the odds and challenges he has faced in his short life so far.”
