My sister Jacqueline has been my inspiration most of my life. She is a 28-year-old woman with Down syndrome and one of my best friends. Growing up, Jacqueline always found a way to connect with people - whether it was a family member, a neighbor, or a stranger she crossed paths with on the bus. She possesses a special ability to put a smile on someone's face. Like any older sister, I worried about what Jacqueline would do when she finished school. I remember having a conversation as she neared graduation and asking her what she wanted to do next. Without hesitation she said, "I want to help people like you." So, it comes as no surprise to anyone who has ever met her, that Jacqueline has captured countless hearts in her years of public service in Boston. Boston is a city that is rich with political history. The hallways of the State House and Boston's City Hall can be intimidating for anyone. But, Jacqueline knew intuitively early on that being successful in a political environment does not always boil down to who you know, but rather you will succeed if you treat everyone fairly and with respect. I know in my own career in politics, I have learned many lessons just by watching Jacqueline and the way in which she conducts herself. Not once has she ever let having Down syndrome stop her from pursuing her dreams. It wasn't always easy though. One of Jacqueline's first jobs was at the State House. The particular office she was assigned to was not a good fit, and she was terminated. I remember being so frustrated thinking - how could someone fire a person with Down syndrome? That didn't stop Jacqueline. She found new home working at Boston City Hall, currently for Councillor Mark Ciommo of Brighton - a public servant whom Jacqueline takes great pride in representing. She has thrived for the past six years first as a secretary and now as an executive assistant. Often times she's described as the "glue that holds the office together." Government and politics is often described as callous. That may be true. However, many people at City Hall can recount countless occasions when Jacqueline walked the halls, office to office, delivering the mail to one of her boss' adversaries during a time when a controversial issue was being debated. Her presence alone often lightened the mood and tension. I'd like to believe that she has affected some of her peers to realize that we're all after the same goal working in public service - seeking to help the most vulnerable, people like Jacqueline. If you too have been blessed to have such a special person in your life as a relative, friend or co-worker, then you know - they always find a way to touch your heart. I believe without a shred of doubt that a person with Down syndrome can do anything if given the chance to believe. Just look at my sister.