Irmarie, 24, is a rhythmic gymnast from Puerto Rico. She moved to Tampa, Florida with her family in 2015, and the following year began practicing ribbon, rope, and ball routines as part of a Special Olympics team. The sport involves performing on the floor with the aid of these and other hand apparatuses.

In 2018, Irmarie brought her performing talents to the theatrical stage, where she acted in "Aladdin" and "Peter Pan"—both opportunities provided by special needs theater program @penguinprojectfoundation. Irmarie's mother Zoraida says, "We are so proud of her, because even with the language barrier, she performs and does whatever is needed to make it correct."

The aspiring nurse ("like her auntie") graduated from high school and has continued to improve her English while in an adult education program at Brewster Technical College. At home, she likes to draw, talk on the phone with friends, watch "Batman," and listen to Latin music. When in Puerto Rico, Irmarie was active in childrens' programs hosted by @fundacionsindromedownpr, the Down syndrome foundation there. Programs included art and dance therapies and vocational skills training. Her family feels grateful for the resources available in both Puerto Rico and in the United States that have helped Irmarie's talents flourish.

To expectant parents of a child with Down syndrome, Zoraida says, "It is the most wonderful thing that can happen in your life. People with Down Syndrome brighten everybody’s life with their unconditional love."

She continues: "We as a family have discovered that love is what changes people’s life. You don’t need to speak the same language to be understood. Every single person who knows Irmarie loves her. Sometimes they have no idea what she’s trying to say, but she always lets people know what she wants and how much she loves them."