A constituent of Assemblyman William Colton (D—Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Dyker Heights) was recognized by the assemblyman for his achievements, in the face of long odds.

Christopher Alvarez, who was born with a rare genetic condition that limited his growth to that of a 15-month-old child, and which doctors predicted would kill him at an early age, graduated college and now 28, is working as a reporter. Last month, he stopped by Assemblyman Colton’s district office, where the assemblyman presented him with a proclamation. “thank[ing] him for his service as a New York City-based bilingual journalist, filmmaker and disability advocate.”

“Despite what doctors told her, Christopher’s loving mother never gave up, and, as a result, this outstanding young man has grown up to become a credit to his family and his community,” said Assemblyman Colton, who noted that Christopher’s younger sister is also making her mark, heading to medical school in the near future. “What a wonderful example this close-knit and loving family presents! No matter what disability one may have, no matter the medical prognosis, there is no limit to what a person can achieve, given the opportunity.”