In my circles we talk a lot about the need for family friendly, wholesome entertainment. That’s not just my church circle either. In my Down syndrome circles, we talk about wanting to see more positive images of individuals with Down syndrome in the media and in entertainment. I personally feel that changes in the media are crucial to changing perceptions. I believe it is key.

Well, family friendly entertainment and Down syndrome collide in a move set to open in theaters tomorrow. “Where Hope Grows” is a movie about a baseball player whose professional career was cut short due to his personal problems. His life takes a different turn when he meets a young man with Down syndrome (David DeSanctis) who works at the local grocery store.

David DeSanctis stars in this movie and is one of the first actors with Down syndrome to star in a nationally released film. Recently, we had the opportunity to meet him during the NDSS Buddy Walk on Washington. He was really fun and aspiring actress Rachel was very impressed.

GO SEE THE MOVIE! I hear all the chatter about the lack of family friendly entertainment. Well, we change that by supporting family friendly entertainment and we will see more people with Down syndrome and other disabilities in positive roles in the entertainment industry if we spend our money and time going to these kind of movies.

And as one of my favorite movie characters of all-time would say, “That’s all I have to say about that.” ~ Forrest Gump.