Troy

The following feature is in partnership with Gigi’s Playhouse New York City. Find a Gigi’s achievement center near you at gigisplayhouse.org/locations.

Troy, 18, is a musician, athlete, and soon-to-be college student at Syracuse University. Of his acceptance to the InclusiveU program, he said, “I am so excited to go to Syracuse. I want to make new friends and do fun stuff with my friends. I want to be independent and go to the movies, go out to eat, go to sporting events and parties. I am also excited to learn new things in classes.” Past courses in the program have included Intro to Biology, The Civil War, Intro to Jewelry and Metals, Ceramics, Concert Choir, Intro to Culinary Arts, Becoming a Personal Trainer, and many more. We’re over the moon for you, Troy!

When not in class at his high school, Troy can be found working out, playing sports, and practicing his music. He’s taken piano lessons for 5 years, plays guitar—Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” being a favorite—and writes his own songs about family and friends. Troy often practices drums (usually to Post Malone’s music), and sings in quarterly performances with Daniel’s Music Foundation as well. 

Troy is also a multi-talented athlete, having played basketball for 10 years (and helped as a coach and scorekeeper for 2!) and even winning the 3-point contest at his school two years in a row. The high schooler is also an orange belt in karate, and is a strong swimmer with a love for diving. In his remaining time, Troy loves to workout (particularly to his favorite 7-Minute workout video) and teach others what he’s learned. He helps lead a GigiFit exercise class and models the correct movements to his physical therapist’s younger students. Troy’s dream of becoming a workout instructor makes perfect sense! 

Troy’s mother Jane says the most rewarding thing about having a child with Down syndrome has been “Watching him succeed and having fun while he is doing it.” We’re amazed by you, Troy!