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Breaking Boundaries

Kristen has been a valued employee at McDonald's for the last 5 1/2 years. She has won Employee of the Month and Employee of the Week recognition. Five days a week, she makes chicken fajitas, salads and apple pies in addition to her cleaning duties. "People have preconceived notions about Down's Syndrome. Kristen is educating the world that disabilities don't get in the way." -- Ruth Sutton, Kristen's mother

Ypsilanti resident Kristen Sutton is living her life to the fullest. She works every day, volunteers, attends church, and still has time for her boyfriend, parents and two younger sisters. She's won talent shows, gold medals at the Special Olympics for swimming, and even the Governor's Education Honor Roll Award, which was presented to only two secondary students in the state of Michigan as recognition for dedication and success in the workplace. Kristen was born with Down's Syndrome 25 years ago. During elementary school, she attended classes with the rest of the neighborhood children. In seventh grade, Kristen started special education classes that transferred emphasis from academics to independent living skills. Last May, Kristen graduated a year early. Nearly every teacher since kindergarten showed up at the graduation party to congratulate her. Kristen leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets. She's determined, responsible, and her positive and vivacious personality can make anybody smile. "Kristen is just Kristen Ñ I just expect everything she does," says Ruth Sutton, Kristen's mother. The amazing thing about Kristen is that she has no boundaries. She's not showing the world to live with a disability, she's showing the world how to live.

Kristen is an active member of her church, serving as the cross bearer every Sunday. In the past, she has helped with the Bible School and the choir.

In 1991, Kristen and Chris Fattori met at a Homecoming Dance and have been dating ever since. "She's a fascinating woman and I think of her as loving and caring. She definitely makes me laugh. É I'm crazy in love."

Once a week, Kristen volunteers at the Roundtree branch of the Ypsilanti District Library. She loves to read and enjoys the perks by checking out books every time she visits.

Kristen has been playing the piano for 14 years and has won several talent competitions. On her left wrist, she proudly displays her new Ronald McDonald watch presented to her at the Christmas party in recognition for her dedication and hard work.

Before going to bed, Kristen gets a sandwich kiss from Mom and Dad. When asked why they are so special to her, "They're proud of me."