From her mother’s perspective, Allison Girouard is an activist in her own right.

Although it’s not easy for Amy Girouard-Crush’s daughter to communicate, Allison often “speaks out about ableism, racism and sexism,” expressing herself in fragments, with only one or two words at a time through an Alternative Augmentative Communication device.

On Thursday, the Concord mother and daughter brought their convictions with them to the State House when they picked up a proclamation by Gov. Kelly Ayotte recognizing International Angelman Day and urging all citizens to “support affected individuals” — like Girouard — and to “advocate for continued research and awareness.”

At just 11 months old, Girouard was diagnosed with a rare neurogenetic disorder that affects 1 in 15,000 people globally: Angelman Syndrome, a condition that delays development, impairs speech, inhibits mobility, disrupts sleep and causes intellectual disability.

At 18 years old, Allison is proof that, despite challenges, a full life is possible with Angelman Syndrome, her mother said.

Allison relishes learning about true crime. She participates in Unified Cheerleading. Her eclectic musical whims – from heavy metal to rock and radio pop – are known to rule her family’s Alexa.

“She’s spicy, she’s funny, she can be shy. She just lights up a room,” Girouard-Crush said.

An extensive support system at Concord High School has worked to provide Allison with academic accommodations. An AAC device specialist has helped her to “own her communication device as her voice,” her mother said, easing her journey through school alongside many case managers, special education assistants and a direct support professional.

“It’s important for our local community to see stories of people with Angelman Syndrome thriving, being successful,” Girouard-Crush said moments before picking up the proclamation at the State House. “It puts a name and a face to a syndrome that people may not otherwise know about, and that awareness is incredibly critical when it comes to ensuring a full life for people with Angelman Syndrome.”

International Angelman Day is recognized on February 15. The date reflects the genetic defect Angelman Syndrome causes in the 15th chromosome and nods to Feburary’s designation as Rare Disease Month.