Heather Rodriguez and Bill Alsid from GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse join the show! Heather has been a friend of GiGi’s Playhouse and a die-hard advocate for Down syndrome for 10 years. Bill is a participant at GiGi’s Syracuse but is better known for his beautiful personality and his ability to make anyone smile.

This episode is for those who are looking for a way to give back without knowing where to start. Heather breaks down her story as an advocate, not having any connections to disabilities prior to her time volunteering and working at GiGi’s Syracuse. Heather did not know much about people with disabilities, specifically Down syndrome, and even more so, she didn’t know much she needed the diagnosis in her life. She just wanted to go out there and find a place to go, where she could serve and learn more about those with Down syndrome. Now, 10 years later, she doesn’t know how she can ever live in a world without DS.

We also hear a beautiful story of friendship blossoming from the fear of the unknown. Heather was unsure of how to befriend Bill, a grown man living with Down syndrome. Little did she know she was finding a best friend. Bill talks with us about his appreciation for Nancy and GiGi and how they have impacted his life through love and friendship. We then hear some wise words of wisdom regarding through Bill and Heather's message to the world, and of course, GiGi Gives us some tips on “how to have fun”! We hope that you enjoy this fun-filled episode of A Little Something Extra!

Check out the video version of this episode here.