Jamie Brewer to be first Fashion Week runway model with Down syndrome

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 (UPI) -- Actress Jamie Brewer, best known for her frequent appearances in American Horror Story, will become the first woman with Down syndrome to model on the runway at New York Fashion Week.

"It's amazing, it's really neat," Brewer told The Today Show, describing the Carrie Hammer dress she'll wear on the runway.

"Many women have many sides to their personality, this dress fits ... mine. I am honored to be in it."

Brewer's mainstream television success and subsequent inclusion in Fashion Week is an inspiration to her many fans, including nonprofit Changing the Face of Beauty, which encourages filmmakers and the media to include people with disabilities in their productions.

"Thank you for being the change that is long overdue," Changing the Face of Beauty co-founder Katie Driscoll wrote on the group's Facebook page.

"I could literally cry every time I read an article talking about your decision to include a model who just happens to have a disability! YOU are what this world needed!"

For her part, Brewer relishes being a role model and appreciates the responsibility.

"Young girls and even young women...[see me] and say 'hey, if she can do it so can I. It's a true inspiration being a role model for any young women to [encourage them] in being who they are and showing who they are."