Model with Down Syndrome to walk at New York Fashion Week

'Emirates 24|7' has earlier introduced to its readers 18-year-old Madeline Stuart from Brisbane, Australia.

She has Down Syndrome, but that is not the only thing we are talking about here. Madeline's determination is such an inspiration!

This teen is into all kind of activities that we only think to do some day - swimming, cricket, dancing, cheerleading, gymnastics, basketball, to name a few.

Madeline announced she will walk in New York Fashion Week for American label FTL Moda, in association with the Christopher Reeve Foundation, on September 13.

The Brisbane native has nearly 450,000 fans on Facebook and 60,000 followers on Instagram.

Facebook post: So 18 months ago I decided to turn my weight around and to concentrate on my health. This is the outcome. Please like and share my page if you believe our health is so important. Help me to encourage other people to get healthy.

Soon she will also front two new campaigns. Madeline is the face of accessories brand EverMaya, which has also introduced a line of handbags named after her (five percent of the sales will go to the National Down's Syndrome Society). Activewear line Manifesta has also signed a contract with Stuart.

On Madeline's Facebook page, she writes that she chose to begin modeling out of her belief that "exposure will help to create acceptance." And she has definitely managed to do so.

Once about 45 pounds overweight and other health problems - including three holes in her heart and a loose valve - Madeline remains completely positive and driven toward her goal.

Madeline will be the second model with the condition to take to the fashion week catwalk, following in the footsteps of 'American Horror Story' actress, Jamie Brewer, who strutted in New York Fashion Week for Carrie Hammer in February.

(All pics from Madeline Stuart's Instagram) 

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