We are thrilled to celebrate an incredible achievement by freshman Frannie Ronan, a student in our Options Program! Frannie was invited by the Down Syndrome Center of Puget Sound to join a life-changing advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. There, she partnered with the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the National Institute of Health (NIH) to advocate for the groundbreaking Deondra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act. This vital legislation aims to improve health outcomes for individuals with Down Syndrome.

The bill, named in honor of Deondra Dixon, the late sister of actor Jamie Foxx, passed the House of Representatives in September and was recently presented to the Senate.

During her time in D.C., Frannie experienced government in action and played a key role in this historic advocacy effort. She attended a Senate briefing, participated in advocacy meetings and witnessed powerful testimonies from NIH representatives, U.S. lawmakers and actor Jamie Foxx himself.

Frannie’s trip included:

• Engaging in advocacy meetings to advance the bill.
• Attending a Congressional hearing where the importance of the act was discussed.
• Connecting with celebrities and national advocates with Down syndrome.
• Meeting with Washington State Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, a sponsor of the bill and mother of a son with Down syndrome.
• Participating in a celebratory reception, representing Washington State alongside advocates from 22 other states.

This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Frannie, who witnessed the inner workings of government and made a meaningful impact on an issue close to her heart.

We are so proud of Frannie for representing Eastside Catholic and contributing to this important national effort. Way to go, Frannie!

To learn more about the Deondra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act, visit: Global Down Syndrome Foundation.