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I really do love this commercial! It always make me want to cry! I wish my school was like this...
Posted 19 days ago by Demari G. from CA, Sac.

I would like to say, at my high school, things like this happen all the time. It is incredible to watch the compassion that the people in my school have. We have a very special 4X4 team. The boys' baton actually is another boy from our school named Cam who is there 100% mentally, but he has cerebral palsy, and has since birth. They push him in a wheelchair made specially for running. Cam also won Prom King at our school.
Posted about 1 month ago by Darcilee M. from West Jordan, Utah

I'm still crying from watching this commercial. It is great they put something like this on the TV. We need to start seeing that no matter who you are you can do what everyone else does! I have a little cousin with down syndrome and I just want her to be like everyone else and not been seen as different, or a "freak". She isn't any of them. None of these people are. They are all beautiful!
Posted about 1 month ago by Sabrena C from Odessa, Texas

This makes me sad that all the homecoming dances that I went to (I shuffled through different schools) always picked the "popular" girls based on looks and grades. I actually entered once, and overhead some girls were saying "Why did SHE enter? She's a freak," but with more colorful language. This commercial is my favorite.
Posted 2 months ago by Sabrina N from New York

I absolutely LOVE this ad! I'm in 7th grade, and one of my electives is Unified PE. In that class, we have PE with students that have Autism and Down Syndrome. I used this ad for an end of year PE project we are doing, and I think this is a wonderful advertisement! I wish have have this at our school.
Posted 3 months ago by Nabihah I from SC

True beauty within and outside are Becca Winegar's undeniable attributes. She is a shining example of authenticity, enthusiasm, and determination to succeed. She does not shy away from hard work it takes to reach a goal and develop her many talents! It is wonderful to see her recognized for herself and everyone winning in the process. I often wish that many more of us had her abilities! Becca's luminous smile that rises from her spirit within is unforgettable. She is a real inspiration along with her family. Good luck with all you will yet do, Ms. Becca! Shine on..... and give us more commercials that really matter.
Posted 4 months ago by Lynn K. from Mint Hill, NC

My 14 year old sister (I am 16) has down syndrome, and my Dad and I just saw this commercial, and I just teared up right away. It's very nice to see a commercial like this!
Posted 5 months ago by Julia Q. from Michigan

As the mother of a son with special needs, I was thrilled to see this message and true story aired on TV via the Foundation for a Better Life! Thank you...this touched my heart.
Posted 5 months ago by Sunny W. from Indianapolis

This made me tear up. It was adorable, I wish this would happen at my school.
Posted 6 months ago by Shelby O. from Houston

Thank you for this wonderful story. After teaching Special Ed. students for 30yrs. what a blessing to see something so positive and heart warming and not negative.
Posted 6 months ago by D.Henderson from St.Petersburg, Fl.

This is the best one. True beauty shines from within these are always so inspirational.
Posted 6 months ago by Cherisce C. from Barbados

I was wondering which school this event was based on. The same thing happened at my niece's school in Columbus, Montana during the 2007-2008 school year. Like the kids in Shellie's school, the kids of Columbus High School were open hearted and accepting of someone who normally would never have a chance to become the Homecoming Queen.
Posted 6 months ago by Suzanne A. from Riverside, CA

I loved this commercial. I saw it on television and it inspired me.
Posted 6 months ago by Lauren D. from Baltimore, MD

This is one of my favorites. Our family smiles every time it comes on.
Posted 6 months ago by Sharon S. from Round Lake Beach, IL

I love this video! Thank you so much for putting out there!!! My daughter is 11 and has Down Syndrome, everyone in her class loves her to. Thanks!! You have no idea what it means to us.
Posted 6 months ago by Jennifer G. from Louisiana, MO

I truly wish that more children (especially in the teen years) would be more accepting of people with disabilities. My niece has Down Syndrome and I can only hope that people will truly open there hearts and minds because they deserve to have every opportunity. I love that you have the commercial during American Idol that's the audience we want to capture. THANKS!!
Posted 6 months ago by Caroline W. from Miami, Fl

This is absolutely amazing! I saw this commercial on TV tonight and I was absolutely stunned; it really moved me. I'm so happy they made this it's amazing.
Posted 6 months ago by Stephanie B. from Illinois

This brings tears to my eyes. It also happened in Purcellville, Virginia, at Loudoun Valley High School, four or five years ago. What a testament to the kids in the school!
Posted 6 months ago by Mike Merritt from Upperville, Virginia

This commercial is so beautiful. This is how it should be because she will remember that for the rest of her life.
Posted 7 months ago by Kelsi T. from Yulee, Florida

That happened two years ago at our High School in Aledo, TX. She won because she got more than half the school's votes. We are proud of her.
Posted 7 months ago by Danielle G. from Aledo, TX

In a world that at times seems so broken, lost or all about self worth, something like this continues to show us just where the heart of people, touched by God, can be!
Posted 7 months ago by Mark G. from California

Thank you for the back story about TWO remarkable young women. I love your micro-movies!
Posted 9 months ago by Lydia G from Near Seattle

There is not one time that I have seen this commercial where I am not brought to tears. What a beatiful testament to the good that can be found out there in a society that can seem self-absorbed so often.
Posted 9 months ago by Lisa B from NJ

This is very touching.
Posted about 1 year ago by Chris R. from New York, New York

My daughter Melanie and her date Stephen, were voted Prom King and Queen by the Class of 2007. Melanie has down syndrome and Stephen has cerebral palsy and is in a wheelchair. Only 7 out of the entire class didn't vote for them. For the King and Queen dance, Stephen got out of his wheelchair, and on his knees, danced with his Queen. This story made the Atlanta newspaper and we received hundreds of emails. This one act of love and unselfishness, touched thousands of people. And Melanie, reminds us daily that she is still the Queen, and she always will be. To the Pierce Co. High Class of 2007, you'll never know exactly how much you gave my daughter that night. Thank you.
Posted about 1 year ago by Carol K. from Blackshear, Georgia

I am looking forward to my daughter, Emma, who is now 3 and happens to have Down Syndrome, watching & understanding your commercials in the future. She has so much to offer this world and has taught many already so much!
Posted about 1 year ago by Chirstine R. from Mars Hill, NC

Homecoming is very special to me. The reason why is because my cousin is the same why and it makes me cry!!
Posted over 1 year ago by Evalita L. from CA

I was in the same graduating class as Shelly and I remember that day. What was not said in this "TV Spot" was that the 1st attendant was a girl who was also disabled, her name was April. It was a great feeling to know that we all loved these girls.
Posted over 1 year ago by Jamie B. from Lincoln, Ca.

I saw this more than once during the past winter, but always missed the first few seconds and therefore did not know it is based on a true story. Congratulations to both Shellie and Becca!
Posted over 1 year ago by Robea from Minnesota

This commercial is a tear jerkier and the story is beautiful! I am so glad there are good people somewhere in this world.
Posted over 1 year ago by Michelle M. from Spokane, WA

Everything I would say about this has already been said. It is amazing! I think it's a great reminder to help us remember that true beauty is what's inside. I know Becca and she is an amazing, sweet, beautiful girl! I am so grateful to know her. May we always strive to see the good in all people; to see, what I believe, the amazing potential and beauty is within. Thanks for the video!
Posted over 1 year ago by Rachel C. from Provo, Utah

Its almost impossible not to smile while watching this
:)
Posted over 1 year ago by Camille K. from Colorado

Way to go Becca, you did such a wonderful job portraying Shellie! That could easily have been you as you are also so awesome, TALENTED and very loving. What an inspiring story!! Thank You.
Posted over 1 year ago by Ramona N. from Provo, Utah

Hi my name is Becca and I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to make this commercial. It makes me happy to know that kids with Down Syndrome can contribute and make others happy. I am glad that I was chosen to do it.
Posted over 1 year ago by Becca W. from Provo, Utah

I love that this story was inspired by real life it really goes to show that there are people who do see true beauty and for someone who works in the field of disability who already sees the beauty in others it is hopeful
Posted over 1 year ago by Amanda S. from Ottawa, Canada

This video is amazing! These people are so nice! She really deserved that.

Posted over 1 year ago by Krysta B. from Belle Plaine, Kansas

Hello admin, nice site ! Good content, eautiful design, thank !
Posted over 1 year ago by Maggy from New

You guys do a wonderful job. Keep up the good work.
Posted over 1 year ago by from Malcom

My high school elected a young man with Down Syndrome as our Homecoming King my senior year!
Posted over 1 year ago by Jenna H. from Rock Island, IL

This is my favorite one! When I saw this one for the first time it brought tears to my eyes. And now, my 8th time watching it, I still cry if not more than before. I always think about what if all high schools were like this? That would be a much better use of everyone's time-to think of others- than to just think about themselves.
Posted over 1 year ago by Joelle T. from Tokyo, Japan & Seattle, WA

I think this is one of my favorites. I spent the first 4 years of my school bus career driving special needs students, I loved them all. I see this ad and think how awesome that gal must be.
I had a downs syndrome student who was 8th Grade president, he was awesome!
I had sweet little Joshua who watched the planes fly while we waited for his mom to get home, and rascally Nathan...he was a crackup!
Just because they have special needs doesn't mean they're no less human, we're all the same inside.
Posted over 1 year ago by Gina G. from California

Everyone involved in this story are heroes and heroines. The classmates of Shellie are every bit as special as she is. You are all examples of what shining lights human beings can be
Posted over 1 year ago by Porchlight I. from Cottageville, SC

A wonderful example of true beauty, not the kind that is pushed on young people from Hollywood and magazines. A truly inspiring story.
Posted over 1 year ago by Karen L. from York, Pennsylvania

Boy, I'm speechless. This was beautiful and I cried. I always tell my granddaughter she can do anything she wants she just has to work at it, and just maybe she will be that "HOMECOMING QUEEN" of her high school,she has DOWNS SYNDROME also,I LOVE YOU HANNAH!
Posted over 1 year ago by TERRIE H. from MYRTLE BEACH, SC

She is beautiful. My daughter would not have voted for her. How do I make her see the beauty in everyone? I thought I was doing well...
Posted over 1 year ago by Michele G. from New Hampshire

Oh my gosh this is so sweet I almost cried... and the coolest thing is that this is a TRUE story witch is just AWESOME!
Posted over 1 year ago by Jay from

Just saw the true beauty commercial. It was a powerful and touching experience for me and I cry every time I see it. I hope it makes a difference in the world.
Posted over 1 year ago by Kia L. from Boston, MA

I am very proud of my daughter Lauren and she will achieve great things in this "better life" truly inspirational
Posted over 1 year ago by Paul D. from Toronto

Just saw your "True Victory" PSA on a DirecTV channel and had to immediately check out your web site. Thanks so much for what you do. My daughter could very well be that homecoming queen one day. Thank you and please keep on keeping on.
Posted over 1 year ago by Donna B. from Gulf Coast, Mississippi

My brother said this is the BEST spot on beauty that he's ever seen. He's a trucker and he said many of the guys were talking on this spot, how incredible awesome it is and when they learn that its based on true story, wow. She is incredible and all in her school, fantastic people. Definitely she radiates as do they, what true beauty is!!
Posted over 1 year ago by Bev M. from Canada

This is an amazing commercial. It is really inspiring- I play it all the time. All I can say is Thank You. I have friends who have Down syndrome, and this has really helped them.
Posted over 1 year ago by Cory a. from Columbia, SC, USA

My 8 year old grandson has Down's Syndrome. He is an inspiration to all of us. This short commercial brought tears to my eyes, and especially as I think about his future. Thank you for promoting our very special children in such a positive way.
Posted over 1 year ago by Carol S. from Underwood, Iowa

This is such a great message and it's really so great that that cute girl got the big prize!!!! She was so cute!
Posted almost 2 years ago by Teneille P. from Utah

As the parent of a child with Down syndrome, thank you from the bottom of my heart. This spot gives me hope that people will see HIM and not just his disability. And that goes for everyone, no matter what their special needs are. Thank you!!!!
Posted almost 2 years ago by Beth G. from Buffalo, NY

I love this commercial! It sends such a moving and powerful message to everyone that true beauty is not skin deep, and there's more to life then what's on the outside. Becca is a very beautiful and courageous young lady! By the way, who sings the song in the commercial? [The song is "What Makes You Different (Makes You Beautiful)" by Backstreet Boys.]
Posted almost 2 years ago by Jesse C. from Seattle, WA

You have to treat some people special in order to show that they aren't different.

Posted almost 2 years ago by Eric V from Portland, Maine

I came to see the "Cafeteria" spot on this site and I wanted to look and see what else this Foundation had. When I saw this it brought tears to my eyes. It reminds me exactly of my high school in Idaho Falls, Idaho. I hope we can all see the beauty in others, and lift everyone up.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Rebecca H. from Rigby, Idaho

I think its sweet how they gave her a chance even though she was different.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Kelli A. from Louisvile, KY

This commercial brought tears to my eyes because my brother is challenged, too. Whenever I see someone making the right choice with people like this, I try to tell them that they did the right thing.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Preston H. from Dallas, Texas, United States

I love this commercial. This confirms that I am on the right track with my program encouraging children to embrace individuals with special needs. I have a 20 year old daughter who has Down Syndrome and she has taught me what my passion is. This commercial is worth a thousand words.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Terri M. from Atlantic City, NJ

This commercial makes smile every time I see it.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Mike B. from Seattle

I'm a mother of a boy with Down Syndrome. This commercial brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Olga L. from Russia

The "Homecoming" commercial is great! I always smile when I see it. It really makes you think about what's important and inspires me to make a difference.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Dustin from California USA

This commercial makes me smile everytime I see it. Your amazing Becca!!
Posted almost 2 years ago by Thomas H. from Cimarron, KS

This video really made me smile. I have a cousin with Down Syndrome and I know what kind and amazing people they are.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Madi T. from NV

What an amazing story of hope. Our daughter Arianna, who has Down Syndrome, is the heart and soul of our family.
Posted almost 2 years ago by Hector B. from Wagon Mound, NM

I truly deeply feel that the impact of this story will help many, it truly has helped me.
Posted about 2 years ago by Guillermo, D from China

This is the best commercial ever! A girl with Down Syndrome at my high school won Prom Queen 08' she was so happy and the guy she wanted to dance with had a girlfriend but he still danced with her on the first slow dance!!!
Posted about 2 years ago by from Tucson, AZ

I love you Becca! You inspire me every day!!!

Posted about 2 years ago by Andy C. from South Africa

This commercial has really inspired me and my family. I have learned to treat people with better respect. Thank you to the people who thought of this commercial, I truly do thank you.
Posted about 2 years ago by Gina V. from California

My older sister has Down Syndrome and I know the love that they show to everyone. I love this clip, and it is my favorite TV spot. Thank you so much for posting this on-air, it means a lot to those of us with a family member with a mental handicap in their family. She's one of my best friends.
Posted about 2 years ago by Tam C. from Warrenton, Missouri

I'd watch more television if you wrote the shows and the ads. This is the best 30 seconds of television.
Posted about 2 years ago by Susan E. from Denver

Finally, a commercial that lets the rest of the world experience the true inspiration my family gets to enjoy everyday. Acceptance for who you are inside and out.
Posted about 2 years ago by Angie W. from Poplar Bluff, MO

What is the song for this commercial? My child has Down Syndrome and I hope to play this at her birthday party. [“What Makes You Different (Makes You Beautiful)” by Backstreet Boys, from the Princess Diaries Soundtrack.]
Posted about 2 years ago by Sarah A. from New York, USA

This commercial is lovely. Every time I see it, it never fails to touch my heart and bring a tear to my eye. After the first time I watched this commercial, I opened my eyes. Thank you, for showing me there's hope.
Posted about 2 years ago by Erin B. from San Diego, CA

Impresionante!! Son unos genios que llenan de esperanza a todos! Sigan así!! Y gracias por todo lo que hacen! Mil gracias y mas...

"Impressive! You are geniuses and fill all of us with hope. Keep it up! Thanks for all you do. Many thanks and more…"

Posted about 2 years ago by Javier B. from Córdoba, Argentina

This spot made me cry. She really deserves this and it’s truly amazing that people have her back in this TV spot. Thanks for showing me that there is hope.
Posted about 2 years ago by Kristie K from Thousand Oaks, CA

I love this commercial. I have a friend with Down Syndrome and every time someone calls her names I stand up for her. She’s really nice too.
Posted about 2 years ago by Devon P., age 14 from Wolcott, New York

This is probably one of the best commercials of FBL. What makes the world such an amazing place to live is that we are all different and unique; it would surely be a boring place to live if we were all the same. Great work!
Posted about 2 years ago by Glen R from Canberra, Australia

What I think is amazing about this commercial is that it's a real head-turner and conversation-starter. I've had talks with my relatives about it, and it got them thinking. I think that's what's going to make this campaign more successful.
Posted over 2 years ago by Nicah S. from Pasig City, Philippines

I have found your ads touching but this one hit home. I have an uncle with Down syndrome and I'm so thankful for your acceptance message. They are truly special.
Posted over 2 years ago by Travis J. from West Virginia

Hi seen this commercial back in January. I am an army wife stationed in Mannheim. When I first saw this commercial (while I still was pregnant) I thought how beautiful and cool it was to have a homecoming queen with Down syndrome! Well in February I gave birth to a little boy who was diagnosed with Down syndrome just after he was born! Now when I see this commercial, it brings tears to my eyes! All children deserve opportunities like this, especially my son.
Posted over 2 years ago by Heather C. from USAG Mannheim, BFV Germany

It is nice to see that all differences are embraced. No one should hang their head in shame for any reason in a country that was created with the ideal of equality as the core of its being.
When you come down to it - if everyone remembered their own uniqueness then a commercial like this one would not be viewed with such amazement.
However, we humans do need a reality check every now and then. On behalf of my son, my family and myself I am extending our heartfelt thanks for keeping us all real.
Posted over 2 years ago by Joanne S from PA

WOW that was awesome! I have a beautiful 12 year old princess with DS.
Posted over 2 years ago by Deanna L from Hawaii

My grandaughter has DS and she is our beautiful queen, she touches everyone's heart who knows here.
Posted over 2 years ago by Darla S from West Virginia

This is very touching. We need more of these commercials popping up spontaneously, to let the world know......people with DS are here to stay. yeah!! I am mother to DS daughter 19.
Posted over 2 years ago by Monique Z from Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada

What a feel good commercal. My grandson has Down Syndrome, and since he has come into our lives, he has introduced us to a whole new world of joy. The happiness and true love that he has for everything is remarkable. It is about time that society can now embrace Down Syndrome and get to share these wonderful children with us.
Posted over 2 years ago by Linda G from Baltimore

Thank you! My baby boy as DS and it's so inspiring to hope that when he gets to be a teenager, other kids might treat him with love, friendship and respect
Posted over 2 years ago by Sarah T. from Los Angeles

Get to know someone with Down Syndrome and you'll really know the meaning of "beauty lies within." I love this commercial because it reveals that potential to the whole world and perhaps inspires someone out there without Down Syndrome to stop and meet and make a friends with someone with Down Syndrome. If you do that for yourself, you'll bring happiness to your new friend, and you'll receive happiness tenfold in return. I'm learning that every day from my four-year-old daughter who was born with Down Syndrome. I'm lucky to get to hang out with her.
Posted over 2 years ago by Sarah E. from Baltimore, MD

Wonderful, an example of energy and enthusiasm!
Posted over 2 years ago by Mary C from London

This commercial brought tears to my eyes! Tears of joy! I have a 9 mo. old baby boy with Down syndrome and everyday I wonder how he will be accepted in our often cruel society! This gives me hope!
Posted over 2 years ago by Benita H. from

I was so excited about this commercial. I told everyone at my work the following day. I only wish there were more like these on TV. Thank you so much for the good cry!
Posted over 2 years ago by April H. from Indiana, USA

Great commercial. Love it
Posted over 2 years ago by Juvy S from Los Angeles, California, USA

My 7 year old daughter has down syndrome. This commercial brought tears to my eyes. Absolutely Wonderful!
Posted over 2 years ago by Karen F from Wolcottville, IN USA

THANK YOU!!!

(it is about time!!)
Posted over 2 years ago by Angela Wesley from Houston, TX

As a mother to a beautiful perfect son with DS this commercial made me smile and filled my heart with the joy and hope that others see the perfect little human being that I am privliged to have in my life.
Posted over 2 years ago by MH from Phoenix, AZ

Our society desperately needs to be reminded of the innate worth of all human beings. I applaud and salute you for your commercial about the homecoming queen who has Down syndrome. Keep up the great work.
Posted over 2 years ago by Lori B. from Austin, Texas USA

There is no cure for Down syndrome but ACCEPTANCE sure does come close. Thanks for the great commercial airing at a great time during American Idol!
Posted over 2 years ago by Santa C from New Jersey

Thanks for making my day with this ad! How wonderful to present individuals with a disability in a positive, respectful and true light!
I know the beauty of Down syndrome. I live with it every day!
Posted over 2 years ago by Robbin L. from Pewaukee, WI

A ray of hope and light!!!
I saw this commercial last night and tears welled in my heart. I have a 13 yr old granddaughter with DS and I see her potential everyday. Keep up the great work. and thank you for the inspiration you bring to all.
Posted over 2 years ago by Kathy C from Perth Amboy NJ

Being a strong advocate and mother of a beautiful Down syndrome daughter, knowing that thousands of children were watching American Idol and saw this commercial lifts me up. I LOVE IT
Posted over 2 years ago by C Sevier from West Virginia

I watched this one over and over and it brings tears to my eyes each time. My daughter with Down Syndrome is MY homecoming queen. How wonderful of you to remind the world what beauty lies within all of us.
Posted over 2 years ago by Sue C. from Bridgewater, NJ

So cool that you got a spot on American Idol! My oldest daughter and I were thrilled! She has a younger sister who has Down syndrome. And yes...she too is truly beautiful! Thanks!
Posted over 2 years ago by Nicole M from Kentucky

Great commercial!
Posted over 2 years ago by Kathy R. from South Bend, IN

This commercial really hits home. I have a 30 year old sister with Down Syndrome. When I saw this it put a smile on my face! This commercial will inspire those with disabilites, it will show them that anything is possible!
I cannot wait to share this video clip with my sister! Thank you!
Posted over 2 years ago by Cheryl C. from Virginia

I really like this commercial! When I grow up, I want to help kids with down syndrome. This video is my favoite, and it has given me a even better reason to want to volunteer!
Posted over 2 years ago by Mariah W. from Dallas, TX

Beautiful! Very inspiring. I have a daughter with Down Syndrome named Destinee and she is just 29 months old. Everyday of my life I wonder how will the world accept my daughter when she grows older. This commercial just strenghtens my hope for her.
Thanks for sharing.
Posted over 2 years ago by Sue A. from Glenview, Illinois

These videos are beautifully done. They teach people the right things to do and say. And we all need that, so thanks so much for that.
Posted over 2 years ago by Paul B. from Santa Maria, California, USA

Great commercial!
The song is "What Makes You Different (Makes You Beautiful" by Backstreet Boys.


Posted over 2 years ago by Susan Stone from California

This homecoming queen is great to see. I have a 14 year old daughter that is Down syndrome and it is great to see them win.
Posted over 2 years ago by Shawnea K. from Georgetown, Ohio USA

It's nice to know that an attractive young woman would acknowledge someone who deserves praise from others. These videos are great, because they teach us many morals that we can pertain throughout life.
Posted over 2 years ago by John A. from Soledad, California USA

I love the "Homecoming" commercial so much. The music is great too. I love all the TV ads, keep up the great work. I have told all my friends about this website!
Posted over 2 years ago by Dominique from Kamloops, British Columbia USA

The TV "Homecoming" commercial is my favorite so far. So nice to see a young lady with Down syndrome win. The music lyrics "what makes you different makes you beautiful" are so true. This inspires myself and my daughter to remember true beauty comes from within.
Posted over 2 years ago by Karen B. from Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada

Yay! Great commercial.
Posted over 2 years ago by Marie G. from California, USA

These videos are great!!! I love them!
Posted over 2 years ago by Laura H. from Cabot, Arkansas USA

This inspires me a lot. Thank you!
Posted over 2 years ago by Laura H. from Cabot , Arkansas USA

Bravo!
Posted over 2 years ago by Alvin Y. from Toronto, Ontario Canada

This is a good commercial. And the right thing to do
Posted over 2 years ago by Quinn C. from Peterborough, Ontario Canada

Homecoming

The story of Shellie Eyre is of a life lived with courage, determination and unrestricted love for everyone she meets. She was born in 1979 with Down syndrome and is the second child of a family of four children. At three years of age she experienced a major setback in the form of a stroke that left her paralyzed on her left side. But her optimistic outlook and her boundless perseverance made it obvious to all who knew her that she would succeed in overcoming whatever obstacles would be presented to her.

Her school years were a wonderful time of learning a gaining many friends. This culminated in her senior year at Murray High School in Utah when she was selected as the 1997 Homecoming Queen. She had been one of the most popular girls in school because of her easy smile and loving heart. Her landslide victory was due in part to a wonderfully accepting student body that embraced unselfish inclusion, and to Shellie’s attitude toward all her classmates. When asked why everyone liked Shellie so much, one of the students said, “It’s hard not to love Shellie when you know how much she loves you.”

The evening she was selected as Homecoming Queen was an experience that few will ever forget. Even the other Homecoming Candidates felt that there were no losers that night, but that they, and all who were there, had participated in an event where every person had won.

Shellie’s inspirational life is an example of what true beauty can be and where love, acceptance, and inclusion can triumph over any disabilities.

Note: Becca Winegar is the name of the actress that portrayed Shellie Eyre in this spot.

Queen_small

See a behind the scenes video of the people involved in this video including Shellie herself.

Darcie Small

Read the incredible story about how two High School students were inspired by the above PSA and decided to show their community what true beauty is.