Morning Edition: Lebanon’s Clementine Clough to Shine in Times Square for NDSS Celebration

Lebanon’s own Clementine Harper Clough will shine in the bright lights of Times Square on Saturday, September 6, as part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video Presentation. This one-hour video will showcase over 500 photos of children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from all 50 states and 11 countries, celebrating their beauty, achievements, and place in our communities.

Clementine’s photo, taken during her Easter portraits just five months after open-heart surgery, was chosen from more than 2,600 entries worldwide. Her image will be displayed on two massive Jumbotrons in the heart of Times Square and streamed live on the NDSS Facebook page from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. ET.

To make the trip to New York possible, the Clough family has been selling “Clementine’s Caramel Corn” to friends, neighbors, and supporters for extra spending money on the trip. The community has rallied around them, turning this milestone into a shared celebration of love, hope, and determination.

The Times Square presentation serves as the kickoff to the New York City Buddy Walk, held in Central Park. Since 1995, the Buddy Walk has grown into a nationwide movement, with more than 150 events across the country and in select international locations. Recognized as one of the top 30 fundraising events in the nation, it continues to raise awareness, funds, and support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Down syndrome occurs when a person has a full or partial extra copy of the 21st chromosome. The cause is still unknown. It is a condition—not a disease or birth defect—and those with Down syndrome are valued members of the Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) community. In the United States, approximately 1 in 770 babies is born with Down syndrome.

Clementine’s journey, from surgery to Times Square, is a story of resilience and joy. It’s a reminder that every milestone is worth celebrating—and that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen.

For more information on supporting NDSS, email donations@ndss.org or call 800-221-4602, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

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