January 21 is held International Adoption Day – a valuable event with a touching story. Sometimes it’s important to accept some things. The statement is especially true in the case of recognition of a person’s disability. This fact should not make people feel inferior, that is why this day was created to recognize special people.

It all started with Annie Hopkins, a girl with disabilities. She faced prejudice, discrimination, and low expectations. But Annie ignored it and achieved goal after goal: singing in the choir, winning a talent show, and in order to join a sorority in college, she made 40 buildings on campus build ramps. After her studies, she created an informative and humorous channel on YouTube, shared her experience, helped others, engaged in charity work, engaged in entrepreneurial and advocacy activities, and drew. In 2007, with the help of her brother, Annie founded 3E Love to spread her ideas and created an international symbol of acceptance, which is a wheelchair in the shape of a heart. Both the company and the symbol convey the ideals of equality, commitment, respect and understanding.

On January 20, 2009, Annie passed away due to complications from medical procedures. Her brother Steve, family, friends and people with disabilities helped keep her ideals alive. Steve took over the company and the day of Annie’s death changed from a symbol of sadness and loss to a symbol of acceptance and Annie’s message. The event has been celebrated since 2010.