World Down Syndrome Day cancelled, but can't cancel this musician's dreams

This is normally a busy time of year for a musician, but now they're homebound, like many other locals.

In late February, Nancy and Jenny were practicing songs for World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st. That was before the Covid-19 virus changed everything--canceling the many charitable fundraisers and awareness events that take place in the warmer month of March.

It’s typically Nancy and Jenny Lowther's best opportunity to perform their music, with Nancy on piano and Jenny on orchestral bells.

"I was a little bit disappointed," said Jenny, who started music when she was in sixth grade.

Jenny and her mother look forward to sharing their musical talents and performing for crowds at places like the Governor’s mansion when World Down Syndrome Day comes around.

"We just love playing for people and seeing their smiling faces," said Jenny's mother, Nancy.

Now, any plans involving large groups in one place will have to wait until the current viral threat passes.

But Jenny isn't ready to give up her work--or her music. She said, "I'd rather work than be lazy.

"It was a challenge to convince people to let her try things, but every time she would try, she would succeed," said Nancy about her daughter.

Jenny said she hopes that her hard work inspires others like herself to prove that they too have special abilities.

"Keep trying - and never give up. Never give up on your dreams," she said.

This event for World Down Syndrome Day may be canceled, but advocates say their cause is still active. Their theme this year is called "We Decide," meaning, people with Down Syndrome should have full participation in decisions and other matters that affect their lives.