"It's important to recognize that even though we all have abilities and we all have disabilities that we don't define ourselves and describe ourselves by those."
That's the philosophy of one of the Down syndrome stars of A&E's Born This Way. The award-winning, inspirational series returns for Season 2 at 9 p.m. today.
The show is made all the more inspiring because, unlike some reality shows featuring those who are "different," Born This Way doesn't sink to the level of what I've described before as a "freak show" presentation.
There will be 10 episodes in the new season of the docu-series that features an intimate look at the lives of seven young adults in Los Angeles with Down syndrome.
Born This Way was chosen as one of six programs to receive the 2015 Television Academy Honors, an award "that celebrates and recognizes programming that creates awareness, enlightens, educates and/or positively motivates audiences."
What, exactly, is Down syndrome?
The National Down Syndrome Society explains, "Typically, the nucleus of each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent. Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21."
More simply, it is "a genetic disorder characterized by distinctive facial features and some intellectual disability."
According to the society, one in every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome -- about 6,000 a year. That makes it the most common genetic condition. Approximately 400,000 Americans have Down syndrome.
Each person is unique, but the common physical characteristics include low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes and a single crease across the center of the palm.
Many of the medical conditions previously associated with the syndrome are now treatable, the society says, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives.
Finally, the society tells us, "All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses."
Those strengths and talents are evident in Born This Way as the young stars "pursue their passions and lifelong dreams, explore friendships, romantic relationships and work, all while defying society's expectations."
Featured along with the young people are their supportive parents. Each discusses the joy their child brings to the family, as well as the challenges they face in helping them live as independently as possible.
Personal independence and relationships play a deeper role in Season 2, which introduces new friends within the Los Angeles Down syndrome community.
For those who missed the six episodes of Season 1, here's a brief look at the cast and what they'll be up to this season.
Rachel Osterbach. She works in the mailroom at an insurance company and looks forward to her brother's wedding. However, her doctor warns her to start adopting a more healthy lifestyle.
Sean McElwe. Sean and his buddy Steven move into their own apartment and Sean declares he has decided to quit being a ladies' man and settle down with one girlfriend.
Steven Clark. Steven is hoping to get handy tips on how to get a girlfriend from his new roommate.
John Tucker. The aspiring rapper is told by his parents that there's a limit to how long they'll support him while he pursues his career. That motivates him to redouble his efforts to become a success.
Cristina Sanz. Cristina and her fiance, Angel, have a lot of life skills to master before they are ready to live on their own.
Megan Bomgaars. Megan's clothing line has really taken off and she's determined to move back to Los Angeles from Denver alone. That puts her at odds with her overprotective mom.
Elena Ashmore. Elena is still struggling to find her place in life and within the group. There's a big argument with her mom that forces Elena to learn a better way to express her feelings.
• Netflix reminder. The new season of BoJack Horseman has dropped (that's the technical online streaming term for "begun").
The adult animated sitcom stars the voice of Will Arnett in the title role of a washed-up actor who happens to be a horse. Yep. A horse. The supporting cast includes Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Paul F. Tompkins and Aaron Paul.
The TV Column appears Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Email:
mstorey@arkansasonline.com
Style on 07/26/2016