I would like to introduce myself to the Licking County Board of Developmental of Disabilities’ community. My name is Alexis Ackerley!  I am 36 years old. I grew up in Houston, Texas with my wonderful parents who gave my three brothers and I a great childhood. 

I was born a little different than anybody else in my family. Having Down syndrome has not stopped me from doing what I enjoy. I have lots of people in my life that make me feel happy and support me in everything I do. 

I have had many experiences from so many schools, college and had lots of jobs that I had for so many years that I accomplished for a long time. I encouraged myself to learn many skills by inspiring people.

From having those experiences from so many things in my life, I feel that I can share them with everyone, hoping to inspire them that being different shouldn’t stop you from doing the things you love. 

I enjoy writing, painting and dancing. 

There are lots of people in the world who can make a difference in life.  I make a difference by feeling like I have expressed myself in my own way, in my own life. By becoming a successful person that makes my hard work incredible. I am looking at my own faith and am open to any opportunities that I am able to handle.

I’ve lived in Ohio for five years. There are many things I have learned about is having freedom and responsibility that I have realized.

There are certain topics I would like to write about like:

1.    Traveling 

2.    Painting 

3.    Nature

4.    Dance 

5.    Holidays

6.    Poetry 

7.    Friends and family

8.    Photography

9.    Stories about life

10. Cooking

11. Sunsets

I love being very creative and feeling the inspirations of life, peace, joy, happiness, freedom, emotion, love and laughter.

I’m looking forward to sharing my thoughts and interests with you.

Alexis Ackerley writes from Alexandria and will be featured on the LCBDD website once a month. If you would like to send her a message or suggestion for a future column, please email anna.jeffries@lcountydd.org and it will be forwarded along to her.