Billy Schulz 1956 - 2012, 'Ambassador of goodness'

We came to know about Billy Schulz, and his mother, Dr Jane Schulz and their advocacy for people with Down syndrome, through their book, Grown Man Now, and their website of the same name.  Both are very valuable resources for those interested in the experience of growing older with Down syndrome, and Billy generously allowed us to use his picture in our own work.

We were very sorry to learn that Billy died peacefully after an illness, at the age of 56, earlier this week, .  A tribute to him, a brief summary of his story and another beautiful photograph are currently on the Grown Man Now blog, under the title The Saddest Post in the Whole Wide World, reading in part, "... Billy was a beloved and influential member of his family, and an ambassador of goodness wherever he went. His cheerfulness and optimism contributed to the communities in which he worked and worshipped."

We extend our sympathy to Billy's mother, Jane, and his family. Billy's legacy will live on through their work, supporting many other families around the world.