GLOBAL's AcceptAbility Gala

Alexandria's Liz Mahar and her sister Crystal Muro, who has Down syndrome, will take the stage at the annual Global Down Syndrome Foundation's AcceptAbility Gala. Crystal has been selected to be a 2026 GLOBAL Ambassador. This dynamic sister duo will advocate for important NIH funding to extend and improve the lives of those with Down syndrome. lives. 

This inspiring fundraiser features a dance performance by Robert Wallop from Annapolis and other DC-area dancers from the inclusive dance team, RhythmXpress, as well as a performance by Emmy Award-winning, multi-platinum singer-songwriter Rachel Platten, whose chart-topping anthem “Fight Song” inspires movements. GLOBAL will bestow their highest honor, the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award, on Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) for their support of GLOBAL’s mission, advancing federal research funding, medical care, and public policy that improves and elongates the lives of people with Down syndrome. 

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition, affecting an estimated 400,000 Americans, yet it has long been one of the least-funded genetic conditions at the NIH. With GLOBAL’s leadership bringing together multiple stakeholders, the NIH Down syndrome research and medical care budget has increased by $440 million over the last seven years.