Ms. Blake Edwards

Ms. Blake Edwards, age 32, is the amazing daughter of Rev. Dr. Donita Edwards and Tony Smith. She was diagnosed at birth with Down Syndrome, a chromosomal disorder affecting 1 in 700 babies born. She has struggled with mobility and balance throughout the years, however, she must dance! Her gracefulness in dance, energetic personality and dazzling smile win your heart. Blake has participated in 11 pageants since becoming the first-ever Miss Abilities Chesapeake in 2015. She has also co-authored a book about her pageant journey (Hi. My name is Blake Edwards) and has high hopes of owning a studio where she can teach young people to dance. She currently holds the title of 2023 VA Miss Amazing Sr. Miss Queen and will represent the state of Virginia in the nationals (Aug 2023).
Blake and her buddy, Layne - October 8, 2022
Blake volunteers Wednesdays for the XIXI Now Success Academy to read bedtime stories to toddlers.
PLEASE HELP US REACH OUR GOAL: On October 8, 2022, Blake took the stage at the VA Miss Amazing pageant held in Virginia Beach, VA. Nervous, of course!! In truth, it takes 110% more effort for individuals with disabilities, like Blake, to stand up in front of audiences, answer interview questions, or even socialize with others. Her hard work paid off because she won the title of 2023 VA Sr. Miss Queen and is headed to Nationals in Chicago July 27-31. For tax-deductible donations: https://saq2023.funraise.org/fundraiser/blake-edwards?fundraiserPrompt=601690&fbclid=IwAR3SNlcbTOfClJQ536IPQvykpki-rGIDPbdF0e74atmu5xqmrXhdgcGrr1k
"Amazing" Chesapeake woman receives a surprise gift		Miss Blake VA Miss Amazing Pageant 2022 October 8th 2022 Surrounded by glitz and glamour, family and friends, buddies, and other contestants, Blake sashays across the stage as if she owns it. Putting aside any nervousness, she gives her all at every event. She makes pageantry look easy, but there is definitely a lot of work that goes into preparing.

To read more about Ms. Blake's pageant journey, see the following articles:

Virginian Pilot on April 25, 2015
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Virginian Pilot newspaper on May 5, 2017
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New Journal and Guide on November 30, 2017
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Virginian Pilot newspaper on January 25, 2018
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The Winchester Star on March 5, 2018
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2021 Miss Amazing Nationals
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WTKR Local news on Dec 4, 2022
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