Thomas

Thomas, 19, is a young woodworker from Durham, North Carolina. Alongside his father, he began cutting pallets with a handsaw, then moved on to using a jigsaw, and then a circular saw before discovering a love for creating more intricate signs with a machine. Thomas begins by selecting the artwork or phrase, programming the machine, painting the signs, then finishing by sanding. He is seen here with a tri-arrow sign based on the "Lucky Few tattoo" design by @micamay, which honors and celebrates the Down Syndrome community. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
When not experimenting with woodworking, Thomas builds Hot Wheels race tracks from his extensive collection, and plays air guitar to his favorite, Bon Jovi. He's a big James Bond fan as well, and is eagerly awaiting the next film coming to theaters in April. Thomas enjoys metalworking, wrestling, and swimming with his older brother in his remaining time. His past interests have included tennis, trombone, drums, and piano.

"Because Thomas wears his diagnosis of Down syndrome, people not familiar with him are surprised that he uses power tools.
Like many parents of children with Down syndrome, I did not really know anything about Down syndrome before Thomas was born. However, when I look at him I don't see Down syndrome and have not put limitations on him, so when Thomas cannot do something, I'm surprised. I have met many people who assume the opposite."
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Donna, Thomas's mother, is the Advocacy & Outreach director at @ncdsalliance. Among his other abilities and qualities, Donna says that Thomas can remember people's names several years after meeting just once, that he is a hard worker, and that "he seems to know no fear and will try anything." Thomas looks forward to moving out and living independently. We look forward to seeing where his knack for woodworking takes him!