Down syndrome is a genetically acquired chromosomal condition that affect intelligence, learning, and physical features. Most people believe that individuals with Down syndrome will always live with their parents and never be able to get a job of their own. But there are a few people with this condition, who are shattering these stereotypes to bits and pieces, and trying hard to prove that nothing is impossible if you put your heart and soul into it. Collette Divitto is one such tenacious lady, who didn’t allow her developmental disability to stop her from following her dreams. After being rejected multiple times by prospective employers, she turned her love for baking into a successful business enterprise.With Christmas just around the corner, Collette’s story, which depicts her “never give up” attitude, is inspiring millions across America. Most importantly, her success story gives those who have Down Syndrome a glimmer of hope about their own future.
Her mother, Rosemary Alfredo, said that her daughter spent a long time searching for jobs and almost considered giving up after being rejected so many times. Collette said she was disappointed with the existing work culture, where it is hard to find a good paying job for people with special needs.
No amount of rejection could stop Collette from striving towards her dream. One day, she decided to start her own business with the aid of her mother and sister. She began her business endeavor by starting small and baking about 100 cookies a week for a local bakery. But soon, word of mouth spread about her delicious cookies and people couldn’t get enough of her cookies.
Collette had always been passionate about cooking, but her speciality had always been chocolate chip cookies dipped in cinnamon.
But it’s a shame we’ll never know the recipe of her yummy cookies. When asked for the recipe for her cookies, Collette responded, “It’s a secret” with a gleeful smile.
“I’m incredibly proud,” her mother said. “If there is one thing or gift you can give any child, it’s that kind of strength. Because when doors have closed for her, she’s found a way around them or she’s found another door to open that might be an even greater path for her.”
Since her story went viral, non-profit organizations such as The Commonwealth Kitchen are stepping in to help Collette to expand her business venture. Divitto has also started a GoFundMe campaign to help raise money for her business venture. Collette’s success story is a subtle reminder to people with Down Syndrome that they can do anything they want in life, as long as they work hard towards it.
Please do check her [online campaign][1] if you wish to contribute to this young woman’s dreams of being the best baker in all of Boston. We wish Collette and her family a Merry Christmas and a prosperous future. [1]: https://www.gofundme.com/colletteys-cookies