A historic event occurred last weekend when 33-year-old Kayleigh Williamson finished the New York City Marathon and became one of the first women with Down syndrome.

Alongside her daughter, Sandy Williamson, her mother, reported that the ten-hour ride was full of dancing, cuddles, and many high fives.

Kayleigh is no newcomer to the world of running. She has previously completed the Boston Marathon, 21 miles of the Austin Marathon, and an impressive 20 half-marathons.

Kayleigh’s journey into running began in 2017 when her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. ‘I implemented

some healthy lifestyle choices,’ Sandy explained, ‘Kayleigh wanted to do some races with me.’

Sandy reports that her daughter has grown to love jogging ever since. A Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day and half-marathons in December,

January, and February are among Kayleigh and Sandy’s forthcoming events. Kayleigh says, ‘I like to

run because it makes me feel happy,’ which perfectly captures her passion for the sport.
Kayleigh ran the marathon in memory of her grandma, who tragically died in 2021.

Her trip was extremely meaningful since it gave her the opportunity to realize her late grandmother’s long-held ambition.

Kayleigh had never been to New York State before, but her grandmother had talked about taking her to view the holiday lights there.

This marathon was her first visit. Kayleigh donned a shirt that said, ‘Running in memory of my grandma,

memories matter, Alzheimer’s awareness,’ in honor of her grandmother and to spread awareness of the disease.

Sandy, 56, said, ‘New York changed the way I saw my daughter,’ in reference to her daughter’s experience

at the New York City Marathon. She would pause and start dancing whenever she heard music. She had intense emotion throughout the final two miles.

She went on, “But then she would dance a little when someone played music on their phone. She would cry after that.

Her aching muscles were causing her discomfort. such kinds of things. However, Kaylee continued. She was unwilling to quit up.

Madeline Stuart is a supermodel with autism and Down syndrome who has definitely made history. Despite the many obstacles in her path, she has been an inspiration to many and a role model for many.