Noelia Garella, Argentine Woman, Makes History As First Woman With Down Syndrome To Become Daycare Teacher

Living with a disability is hard for many people who desire to live fulfilling lives. While many people say that having a disability hold them back, an Argentinian woman is rising to the occasion and beating the odds!

According to Independent, Noelia Garella,31, has made history as the first woman living with down syndrome to become a daycare teacher in Argentina and most importantly Latin America.

“I adore this. Ever since I was little, I have always wanted to be a teacher, because I like children so much,” she tells AFP.“I want them to read and listen, because in society people have to listen to one another.”

The 31-year-old teaches two and three-year-olds at Jerminto nursery in Cordoba, Argentina. This honor is a huge accomplishment for the teacher who when she was a little gir, a daycare center refused to enroll her, referring to her as a "monster" all because she has down syndrome.

Latina reports that down syndrome, one of the most common genetic conditions, is caused by the presence of all, or part, of a third copy of chromosome 21, and it results in severe physical and intellectual developmental delays.

Despite her condition, her determination and persistence inspired colleagues to hire her although they received reservations from other parties.

“With time, even those who had been opposed joined in the initiative to hire Noe as a teacher,” said Senestrari. “We very quickly realized that she had a strong vocation. She gave what the children in the nursery classes most appreciate, which is love.”

Garella has earned the support and respect of her mother, Mercedes Cabrera who tearfully listened to her daughter recount her experience in daycare as a child.

“That teacher is like a story that I read to the children,” she says.“She is a sad monster, who knows nothing and gets things wrong. I am the happy monster.”

This goes to show that no matter what obstacles are in your way, if you put in the time, dedication and passion anything can be in your reach.