Northborough – Scott Jackson of Northborough was one of five people recently honored at the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) Annual Conference at the DCU Center in Worcester. Jackson was recognized as part of the current public awareness campaign sponsored by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS).
The “My Great Story” campaign seeks to ignite a new way of thinking about people with Down syndrome by showcasing and collecting inspirational stories told by people with the condition, as well as their family members, friends, colleagues and employers.
MDSC Executive Director Maureen Gallagher fully supports the project.
“The Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress had over 50 stories submitted, and Jackson's was one of the five we selected to be shared at the conference,” Gallagher said. “We hope to inspire other people like Scott to find meaningful employment and live productive lives.”
This is just another honor added to the numerous awards Scott has earned. He is proud to display his many medals and trophies from his Special Olympics accomplishments. Last year, he received a certificate and a congratulatory letter for completing 20 years of continuous employment from the CEO of Compass Group, which runs the food service program at Raytheon. Scott even won a medal at a belly flop contest on a cruise a few years back.
He's accomplished much in his 42 years. Scott was born Aug. 19, 1968, and three months later, was diagnosed with Down syndrome, a chromosomal abnormality occurring in about one of 800 to 1,000 live births. According to experts, most children born with this condition will experience delays in physical, cognitive and language development and are also at higher risk for certain medical conditions.
His parents, Ralph and Sue Jackson, decided to treat Scott as much like their other children as they could, but there were a lot of questions and many doubts. At the time, information about Down syndrome was difficult to obtain.
“Sue was the one who was shaking the trees, looking for information and support,” Ralph said.
Through the Worcester Youth Guidance Center, a group of four mothers with Down syndrome babies in the Northborough, Westborough area came together. Emily Ransom taught the early development program designed for the youngsters and helped the new mothers and their children with songs, structured play, exercises and games every week for over two years. With training and guidance by teachers who understood their special needs, the kids made progress and the families gained hope.
One mother described Rawson as “the prime gardener of our blossoming children.”
When Scott was 7, he was enrolled in the Special Needs program at the Mercy Center in Worcester.
Sue, the main advocate for her son during his school years, said, “No one comes to you and says, “do you need this or do you need that?” You have to find the right services.”
With the passage of Chapter 766 of the Massachusetts law in 1972, all young people with special needs (ages 3 to 22) are guaranteed the right to an educational program best suited to them. The Jacksons worked closely with Jack Sullivan, the Special Needs coordinator for the Northborough schools to arrange transportation and find programs appropriate for their son.
At 17, when he reached the end of his progress at the Mercy Center, Scott entered a brand new course of study at Algonquin Regional High School. He attended classes during the school day in Northborough until 2 p.m. and then was transported to Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School for training in food and janitorial services from 3 to 6 p.m. In 1990, Jackson graduated from both schools, getting two diplomas, and receiving a standing ovation from his classmates.
“We were at the right place at the right time for Scott to succeed,” Sue said.
With the help of his father, who was an electrical engineer at Raytheon, Scott had several interviews with the Raytheon cafeteria staff and was hired on probation. He passed with flying colors and has been working in the kitchen ever since.
Since Scott does not drive, finding transportation has been an important part of maintaining his independence. Currently, Busy Bee Metrowest Transportation, a service provided through the Worcester Regional Transportation Authority, picks Scott up every morning at 8 a.m., takes him to his job in Marlborough, then brings him back home by 4:20 p.m.
On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Scott is picked up by the Greater Marlboro Programs (GMP), Inc. van for evening social activities.
“He's got a better social life than we do,” his mother laughed. “The Greater Marlboro programs are super.”
GMP Social Director Jim Karami is aware of the importance of his group's offerings.
“Our mission is helping people help themselves,” Karami said. “Scott is a man of very few words, but once he gets going with his friends, the sentences pour out. He's an all-around good guy and everyone loves him.”
Added Karami, “Our programs provide community integration. It's not just us; it's creating aware- ness.”
Travel is one of the components of the program.
“I's taking a cruise [his fifth] in June to Canada from New York City. I like the slots, the food and the dancing,” Scott said.
“GMP is sponsoring the trip for 64 Special Needs people along with chaperones,” Ralph said.
“Scott loves clothes and he'sl be wearing his tuxedo on the cruise,” Sue said.
Scott plays both basketball and softball with his Special Olympics teams and is an avid sports fan. His room is filled with sports memorabilia, especially anything to do with the Red Sox. He follows all the Boston teams and often wears team shirts.
Ralph and Sue Jackson are hoping that Scott's life story will show other parents of babies with disabilities that there are many resources available that can help create a positive and rich life for their children.
“Contact the pastor of your church or a school group to meet other parents,” Ralph said. “Today that's where networking starts. Learn what's out there.”
Sue has another important suggestion for parents.
“Treat your Special Needs child as you treat your other children and push them to the greatest extent of their capabilities. Always have goals in mind to stimulate development.”
Scott Jackson is proof that love, guidance and support lead to a positive and fulfilling life.
