2011 Ambassador DeOndra Dixon

A loving tribute to GLOBAL Ambassador DeOndra Dixon

2009 Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award Recipient
Watch a video tribute to DeOndra

My name is DeOndra Estell Dixon. I am 27 years old. I was born September 6, 1984 in Dallas, Texas. Today I live in Thousand Oaks, California, with my father, mother, brother and sister.

I was born with Down syndrome. My father told me this was very tough for him. He was hurt and confused. He didn’t know anything about Down syndrome. He didn’t know anything about an extra chromosome. He became very protective because I was his little sweetheart and he loved me so much.

I know my family loves me. They never set limits and always make me feel I can touch the sky. I started participating in Special Olympics when I was in the 6th grade. I participated in the Special Olympics for over 9 years and won many awards and medals.

My high school days were special. I participated in school plays and I went to all the dances. I loved the pep rallies. I enjoyed the football games. I graduated with my class from Terrell High School in Terrell, Texas in 2002.

I moved to California after I finished high school to live with my brother Jamie Foxx and the rest of my family. There is so much love.

I am proud of myself. I have a job at my school. I am the Ambassador for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and I won the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award! I am special.

I feel I was born to dance. I want to be a professional dancer. My brother has given me a chance to do some special things. I danced in his video “Blame It.” I’ve danced on stage at some of his concerts all over the country. And guess what? I’ve danced at the Grammy’s!

Lots of kids with Down syndrome never get a chance to shine or chase their dreams. Each one has something to offer and each one has a dream. Please help me and my family to advocate for so many beautiful and brilliant children with Down syndrome who’ve been neglected. Together we will make dreams come true.

My name is DeOndra. And this is my story. So far…