Word.

Today is "Spread the Word to End the Word" day. If you haven't already, visit this website and make the pledge to end the use of the r-word.

Like so many other words in our society, the word "retard" or "retarded" is derogatory and hurtful. I have a 28 year old sister who has spent her life having to deal with the ignorance of others who don't care to understand or get to know her simply because she looks different. Yes, she has Down syndrome. But she's just like everyone else. She simply wants to be loved and accepted for how she is. And I tell you what my friends, she is a prime example of someone who loves and accepts people for exactly how they are.

I urge you to do the same by making the pledge and spreading the word to END the word.

I made this video this morning to give people a glimpse of who my sister really is and how hurtful the r-word can be. Let's make it our goal to make the new r-word "respect."