Albuquerque boy’s photo lights up Times Square

An eight-year-old New Mexico boy’s photo was selected to appear in a National Down Syndrome Society video presentation in Times Square. Bodhi Candelaria was among 500 people featured in the worldwide presentation, after more than 2,700 photos were submitted.

His image was shown Saturday on the giant screens in Times Square, according to the National Down Syndrome Society.

“Bodhi is used to being the center of his families attention, but Saturday his smile lit up one of the most recognizable places in the world.”

The presentation represents people with Down syndrome from all 50 states and 12 countries. Bodhi’s photo was among those featured.

Bodhi’s mom is vice president of the board for the Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network.

“For Bodhi’s family, seeing his face on those giant screens is a reminder that his story, like many others, deserves to be seen. From Albuquerque to New York City, Bodhi is showing the world more of what makes him, him.”

The Times Square presentation kicks off Buddy Walks across the country. The New Mexico Buddy Walk will take place next Saturday at Expo New Mexico.