Stevie Abbot, 71, of Quincy, thrives with Down syndrome thanks to inner joy, his devoted guardian and loving friends in the church community.

QUINCY –  “I thought you might be interested in the story of my buddy Stevie Abbot from Quincy,” the email began. “He has lived in a group home in Quincy for 40 years.

“He’s 71 years old – quite a feat for someone with DS (Down syndrome)!  – and is completely healthy. He lives an active and fun life, having all kinds of adventures. We’ve traveled to Las Vegas over 20 times (he loves Big Elvis and the show girls), Montreal, NYC, Nashville and other places.

“He loves Provincetown and he loves to perform karaoke with the drag queens at The Governor Bradford. He’s quite a character, loves everyone and never leaves a chance to be the center of attention unmet! He loves to perform and never has to be asked twice.

“We attend United First Parish Church in Quincy (the Church of the Presidents) where he has become a central figure in the congregation.”

Source: A Good Age: At 71, Stevie Abbot has an upbeat story of life with Down syndrome