Tampa, September7, 2023 — A heartwarming hometown story is set to be told as the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) announces that Jonathan Saffold (19) and Raquel Caramello (19), an inspiring couple hailing from Tampa Bay, will have their photo featured on the illustrious Times Square Jumbotron during the Buddy Walk on September 9, 2023.
The Buddy Walk, an annual event by the Down syndrome community, stands as a beacon of inclusivity and advocacy. It unites individuals with Down syndrome, families, friends, and supporters to raise awareness and promote acceptance. Each year during the Buddy Walk, the Times Square Jumbotron features 500 beautiful photographs of individuals with Down syndrome. This year, it includes a local couple that has been 15 years in the making.
Jonathan and Raquel’s story began at the tender age of four, right here in Tampa. They met at ice hockey classes, held at Amalie Arena. Their paths would take them in different directions throughout the years, but when Raquel moved back to the Tampa Bay area after a 5 year stint in Orlando, they began to see each other at a variety of social events for people with Down syndrome. In January, Jonathan asked Raquel to be his girlfriend. A few months later, Raquel invited him to her school’s senior prom. Before Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School’s prom aboard the Yacht Starship in Tampa, the couple stopped at the University of Tampa to take some photos. One of these photos was chosen to be on the Times Square Jumbotron.
“My senior prom was awesome, and I loved going with my boyfriend Jonathan. We danced all night, and I was chosen to be on the prom court.”
As Tampa’s own love story graces the iconic Times Square Jumbotron to illuminate Jonathan and Raquel’s prom night, the image encapsulates their shared history, dreams, and the progress they continue to inspire. Jonathan graduated from Focus Academy in 2022 as a straight A student. He now attends Focus Academy’s Transition Program where he works at several community based businesses, including Amazon, Feeding Tampa Bay, Five Star Pizza, and others. He is a 4-time triathlete, completing his first triathlon at age 11. He’s also a Statewide Gold Medal Special Olympian in cycling, swimming, volleyball and flag football. Raquel graduated Bishop McLaughlin High School with honors in May, earning recognition as a varsity cheerleader and membership In several honor societies. She is the CEO of an online jewelry business and attends St. Petersburg College. She is an award winning philanthropist, a legislative advocate for people with disabilities, and State Gold Medalist in Equestrian and Cheerleader.
“Jonathan and Raquel embody the spirit of unity and determination that defines the Buddy Walk,” remarked Raquel’s mom Janet. “Their journey in our own Tampa community, showcases the power of friendship and the capacity for love to overcome obstacles.”
The people of Tampa Bay and beyond are invited to watch the livestream of the Times Square Jumbotron on Facebook and celebrate Jonathan and Raquel’s story as well as all the joyful faces featured that day. Their presence on the Times Square stage serves as a reminder that love transcends all boundaries and fosters a global community built on acceptance.
For more information about the Buddy Walk and NDSS’s dedication to supporting individuals with Down syndrome, please visit www.ndss.org For more information on Raquel Caramello or Johnathon Saffold contact Janet Caramello at janetcaramello@gmail.com or call or text at 727-432-0061