by Rebecca Shaid, NewsHour EXTRA’s intern and sophomore at Northwestern University

As a new school year gets underway, take a moment to think about what inspires you right now and something you’re really passionate about. What makes you so passionate about it?

Justin Gigliotti’s mission is to share his passion with the world — the world wide web, in particular — and educate people about 22q Deletion Syndrome. Justin uses his popular Twitter handle @syndrome22q1 to bring awareness about 22q syndrome, a disorder that is caused when part of the human chromosome 22 is missing. He also shares updates on his everyday activities, including Justin’s love of the guitar and writing music, his friendship with his cousin Joey, and most of all, why it’s okay to be different and to have a disability.

Have a question for Justin about 22q syndrome, reach out to him on Twitter!

To learn more about 22q, visit 22q Family Foundation.

Rebecca Shaid is a sophomore at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She interned with PBS NewsHour EXTRA for most of the 2020-2021 school year, creating dozens of resources for middle and high school students during remote learning. Rebecca volunteered with Prom at the Polls, an organization which encouraged first-time, Gen Z voters to dress up when they went to vote in the 2020 presidential election, since many proms were cancelled due to COVID.