I began singing at the age of three (and performing opera by eight) and always imagined a life devoted to music. Yet life, as it often does, redirected my path in unexpected and meaningful ways. When my youngest son, Ayden, was born with Down syndrome, my journey became both challenging and deeply fulfilling. Through Ayden, I’ve gained an intimate understanding of the despair and frustration that can accompany raising a child with special needs. Yet I’ve also discovered profound strength, love, and resilience through that experience. It has ignited my lifelong commitment to advancing education and research in genetics. I believe that greater access to knowledge can transform despair into hope — and my mission is to empower others through education and contribute toward finding solutions for this complex genetic condition.