Student With Down Syndrome To Be First Queen Of Countryside St. Patrick's Day Parade
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A teenager with Down's Syndrome has been chosen to wear the crown as queen of the St. Patrick's Day Family Parade next month in southwest suburban Countryside.
Tori Reyes' mother, Becki Reyes, said her 17-year-old daughter is honored and excited about being crowned Wednesday night at a ceremony at Countryside City Hall.
Tori is a student at Lyons Township High School, and is part of the Best Buddies program.
"Her best buddy, Kate Dillon, had written a really, really heartfelt letter and pretty much nailed Tori's personality, and her kind of zest for life, and she's just a really out-going, happy kid," Becki said.
Very fitting for a St. Patrick's Day parade queen, Tori does have a wee bit-o-Irish in her as well.
Her mother said she's a great kid, who's very funny and engaging, and has a spunky personality.
"I don't think anybody that's ever gotten to know her hasn't completely fallen in love with her. She's just a riot to be around," Becki said.
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Tori also is a cheerleader for the Lyons Township High School football team, and is a Special Olympics athlete, taking part in basketball and swimming.
"She's kind of like a superfan for her high school. She's just really proud to go to that school, and if it's something for LT, she wants to be a part of it," Becki said.
The parade is March 5th. It's Countryside's inaugural St. Patrick's Day parade, and will benefit the Kelli Joy O'Laughlin Memorial Fund.
