Man with Down Syndrome becomes youngest business owner in town

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Photo: Facebook: Blake's Snow Shack

A 20-year-old man with Down Syndrome has become the youngest business owner in his city.

Blake Pyron’s mom Mary Ann tells KTVU, “I always expected great things out of Blake. Society tried to cloud by expectations, but I wouldn’t let them.”

Blake, now 20, made quite the name for himself in high school. He was football captain, homecoming king, and held down a job at a local BBQ restaurant. 

When the restaurant closed, Blake really missed interacting with the customers. “He loves people, he just honestly loves them. He’s really outgoing.”

Since there weren’t a lot of opportunities in town, Blake along with his parents, decided he should open a business.

Because of his love for snow cones, Blake decided to open Blake’s Snow Shack. He has been very involved in the business plans and always has the final vote on colors and flavors. Mary Ann said Blake was glowing with pride when his business opened last week.

He is thrilled to already see regular customers coming back for more.

Mary Ann says she hopes other mothers will be inspired by Blake’s story.

“Society doesn’t expect Blake to even work, let alone own his own business. I want to encourage moms to believe in your child. Believe in yourself because their dreams can come true.”

Learn more about Blake’s Snow Shack here.