When the National Down Syndrome Society’s Times Square Video Presentation lights up New York City on Sept. 6, a familiar face from Palos Heights will be among the hundreds featured on the iconic digital billboards, 3-year-old Hope Davis.
Hope, the daughter of Bridget and Dan Davis, was selected from thousands of submissions nationwide to appear in the annual presentation, which kicks off the New York City Buddy Walk. The event celebrates inclusion and raises awareness for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
“For Hope to be chosen out of so many pictures means so much to us,” Bridget Davis said. “She’s incredibly courageous and resilient, and of course, it helps that she’s cute,” she added with a laugh.
Hope was born on May 26, 2022, with multiple congenital heart defects and underwent open-heart surgery at just five months old. In a procedure Bridget describes as “miraculous,” pediatric cardiac surgeons at Advocate Christ Medical Center were able to complete a full repair.
Since then, Hope has faced more than 10 hospitalizations for other illnesses, but her mother says nothing can dim her joy.
“She’s battled so much in such a short time and is truly incredible,” Bridget said. “Nothing can stop her. She’s running, she plays T-ball at the Palos Heights Rec Center on the Orioles, she’s done gymnastics classes, she loves dancing and music, and she’s starting to talk more every day. It’s cliché, but she makes everyone around her happier. It’s impossible not to smile when you’re with her.”
The Times Square Video Presentation, which will feature Hope’s photo, leads into the New York City Buddy Walk at the Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park. Since its launch in 1995, the NYC event has served as the flagship walk for the National Buddy Walk Program, which now includes more than 150 walks held annually across the country and in select international locations.
This year’s selection is extra special for Hope’s siblings, 8-year-old Danny and 6-year-old Grace, who are among her biggest cheerleaders.
“Danny and Grace would tell you they are so proud of her, and that she’s famous now,” Bridget said.
For the Davis family, Hope’s inclusion in the Times Square presentation is more than a personal milestone.
“We want everyone to know that having Down syndrome can make some things more challenging, but it’s not a disease and it’s not something to be afraid of,” Bridget said. “It truly is a miracle and a blessing.”
Founded in 1979, NDSS works to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, and fostering inclusion nationwide. Its annual Times Square Video Presentation and Buddy Walk events bring communities together to celebrate diversity and advocate for acceptance.
What a beautiful courageous little gal.