Raising a child who has Down Syndrome can be a uniquely rewarding, but also challenging, experience for parents. Children born with this genetic disorder typically suffer from mental and physical disabilities, and can require special care. This condition is one of the most common chromosomal abnormalities, so perhaps it's not surprising that several famous actors, musicians, and politicians have children with Down Syndrome. Many celebrities with children who have Down Syndrome advocate for equal rights for individuals with special needs through foundations and non-profit groups.
Who will you find on this list of famous people whose kids have Down Syndrome? Political figure Sarah Palin's son Trig was born with Down Syndrome. "Yes, we face extra fears and challenges, but our children are a blessing, and the rest of the world is missing out in not knowing this," she said about her son. Roy Rogers and Dale Evan's daughter, Robin, was born with Down Syndrome in 1950.
English actress Sally Phillips, whose son Ollie has Down Syndrome, says, " I can tell you for sure that having a child like Ollie brings such joy." Other celebrities who have children with Down Syndrome include Albert Pujols, John C. McGinley, and Joe Diffie.
Many of these prominent figures are outspoken supporters of Down Syndrome research and awareness. Read on to see what other celebrity children with Down Syndrome are featured on this list.
Famous People Who Have Kids with Down Syndrome,
Albert Pujols
Albert Pujols has a daughter with Down Syndrome. The MLB star started the Pujols Family Foundation to "promote awareness, provide hope and meet tangible needs for children and families who live with Down Syndrome."
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Cathy McMorris Rodgers
Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers' son Cole was born with Down Syndrome. She went on to found the Congressional Down Syndrome Caucus, which promotes disabled individuals’ potential.
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Gene Stallings
Football coach Gene Stallings' son Johnny was born with Down Syndrome. "My life wouldn’t have been nearly as rich without Johnny, no question about it," he said.
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Joe Diffie
Country singer Joe Diffie's son Tyler was born with Down Syndrome. He said, "With Tyler it's special because any small thing he does is like a giant step."
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John C. McGinley
John C. McGinley's son, Max, has Down Syndrome. The Scrubs actor is a board member and international spokesperson for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation.
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Pete Sessions
Congressman Pete Sessions' son, Alex, has Down Syndrome. "Since the day he was born, I have always encouraged my son Alex to focus on his many abilities rather than his challenges," he said.
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Roy Rogers
Roy Rogers and Dale Evan's daughter, Robin, was born with Down Syndrome in 1950. The famous couple was among the first celebrities to speak out in favor of rights of individuals with special needs.
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Sally Phillips
English actress Sally Phillips, whose son Ollie has Down Syndrome, says, " I can tell you for sure that having a child like Ollie brings such joy."
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Sarah Palin
Sarah Palin's son Trig was born with Down Syndrome. "Yes, we face extra fears and challenges, but our children are a blessing, and the rest of the world is missing out in not knowing this," she said.
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Joey + Rory
Country duo and couple Joey + Rory have a daughter with Down Syndrome. "Out of all the parents in the world, [God] has chosen us to care for and raise this special gift," Joey said.
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