An 18-year-old teen, Madeline Stuart, suffering from Down syndrome, has redefined the meaning of life.

Stuart is into all kind of activities that anyone can ever hope to do some day. She keeps up with swimming, cricket, dancing, cheerleading, gymnastics and basketball.

Now, she is on an inspiring mission to change what society perceives about both modeling and Down Syndrome. She is chasing after her dream to become a model.

On her Facebook page, she wrote that she chose to begin modeling out of her belief that exposure will help her to create acceptance.

“I think it is time people realized that people with Down syndrome can be sexy and beautiful and should be celebrated”, she told ABC.

Her mother Roseanne told Buzzfeed that she struggled with her weight growing up. However, she has gained confidence and lost weight through dance, swimming and cheerleading over the past few years.

Stuart said despite some people's perceptions of Down syndrome, her daughter feels beautiful from the inside out. She mentioned that although she is not insecure, she has made a point of never letting anyone be critical of her.

She also added that the modeling goes along with her daughter’s desire to live a healthier lifestyle. She realized she needed this as she couldn't keep up with friends in sports.

Maddy was once about 45 pounds overweight. However, she has nearly reached weight loss goal, which she attained by keeping up her active lifestyle and eating healthy.

Stuart said Maddy has shown that people with Down syndrome can live active, healthy lifestyles like everyone else. According to her, she will win millions of hearts if she gets a chance.