By Maria V. Gallagher, Legislative Director, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation
A teenager who has become something of a goodwill ambassador for people with Down syndrome achieved another milestone recently.
Seventeen-year-old Chloe Kondrich of western Pennsylvania managed to form a connection with a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
Kondrich’s father, Kurt, a police officer-turned-disability rights activist, had sent Christmas greetings to Justice Amy Coney Barrett along with a copy of a book called Brilliant Souls which features Chloe.
The Kondrich family shared on social media the letter they received from the Justice in reply:
“Thank you for your Christmas card, kind note, photos of your daughter Chloe, and book, Brilliant Souls, by Stephanie Wincik.
”It was generous of you to think of me, and your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated.”
The letter carries Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s signature and is written on Supreme Court letterhead.
Chloe is treasuring the letter, and the opportunity once again to show the capabilities of those who possess an extra chromosome. But the connection between the teenager and the Supreme Court Justice goes beyond an exchange of mementos. The Justice herself, a mother of seven, has a child with Down syndrome.
Who knows where Chloe’s advocacy will take her next? She’s already met with a President and a Vice-President and has spoken at the United Nations. Chloe’s story is one of surpassing expectations, forging unlikely friendships, and bringing hope to a world which sorely needs it.
She is just one example of how people with Down syndrome are breaking through the chains of discrimination and demonstrating their own power and potential.
And that is a supreme accomplishment.