Gaffney brings inspiring message to Mt. Scott

Karen Gaffney brought her inspiring message of friendship, determination and perseverance to Mt. Scott Middle School on October 10, 2007.

Gaffney addressed middle school students and staff, as well as a group of Mt. Scott High School students.

Just one week earlier, the 29-year-old Gaffney became the first person with Down syndrome to swim the nine miles across Lake Tahoe, the nation’s second deepest lake. Her time: six hours, 15 minutes.

Gaffney’s athletic success – she’s also been part of a relay team that swam the English Channel – help provide a platform for her ongoing mission: championing the journey to full inclusion in families, schools, communities and the workplace for people with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities.

To watch Karen’s appearance on NBC’s “The Today Show,” please go to:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/#22397724