Strictly's Ellie Goldstein off-screen - disability campaigning to devastating diagnosis

Ellie Goldstein will become the first person with Down’s syndrome to compete on the main series of Strictly Come Dancing this year and is sure to prove a huge hit with viewers.

The plucky star has packed a lot into her 23 years, including prolific disability campaigning and working with Matel to launch the first Barbie with Down's syndrome. However, she also endured a terrifying health scare when she was a baby after doctors delivered her parents a devastating diagnosis.

The model and actress, who made history as the first woman to appear on the cover of Vogue with Down's syndrome two years ago, says she's "over the moon" to be joining Strictly. It comes as rugby star, Chris Robson, became the eighth celebrity to be announced forthe BC show.

So, as we wait for September to see Ellie in action on-screen, here's what we know about her life away from the cameras, starting with her prolific disability campaigning for Mencap...

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Disability campaigning

As part of Leaning Disability Week in June, Ellie became the face of Mencap to challenge misconceptions about people with learning disabilities.

Reacting to her stunning photos, which were displayed in the windows of the charity's shops across the UK, Ellie said: “I love how the photos have turned out, I look so cool in all the lovely outfits! It’s really exciting to see myself in the shop windows. It means a lot to me to be part of Learning Disability Week and to show what people with learning disabilities can achieve – follow your dreams!”

Following the star's Strictly news, Jon Sparkes, the charity’s chief executive, congratulated Ellie on getting the gig while praising her for supporting Mencap.

He said: “We are so proud to see our Mencap myth buster Ellie revealed as a celebrity dancer for this year’s Strictly. Ellie has never been afraid to push boundaries, and this is just another way to show what people with a learning disability can achieve with the right support.

“At Mencap we know how important it is for people to feel seen, included and recognised.

“We really hope that seeing Ellie do her thing on a Saturday night will start important conversations among the millions of viewers, so we can all move towards a more inclusive society."

Devastating diagnosis

When Ellie was born, her mum admitted she was shocked to learn she had Down's syndrome. Speaking to the BBC, Yvonne said the doctors doubted her little girl would be able to walk or talk, as she shared: "The doctors said she would never walk or talk and a nurse suggested we might want to leave her at the hospital. I struggled to accept her diagnosis and bond with her."

In more devastating news, Ellie needed heart surgery, as her mum continued: "We were told Ellie needed heart surgery so I was really nervous about getting close to her. When she was five months old, she had a 10-hour operation to close holes in her heart. She spent 10 days in intensive care and another week in the high dependency unit."

Thankfully, after three weeks, Ellie was allowed to go home, with her proud mum sharing: "Then her cheeky and determined personality began to shine through."

Launches first Barbie with Down's syndrome

Two years ago, Ellie partnered with Mattel to launch the first Barbie with Down’s syndrome.

The ground-breaking doll was launched in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) in the USA, who advised on how to “accurately represent a person with Down’s syndrome” and “celebrate the Down’s syndrome community – through the Barbie’s clothing, accessories and packaging.”

Taking to Instagram, sharing her pride for the new Barbie and the diversity it represented, Ellie said: “When I saw the doll, I felt so emotional and proud,” adding, "It means a lot to me that children will be able to play with the doll and learn that everyone is different. I am proud that Barbie chose me to show the dolls to the world.

"Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away, Barbie will help make this happen.”

According to a press release, the new Barbie has “a rounder shape, smaller ears, and a flat nasal bridge, while the eyes are almond-shaped. The doll’s palms even include a single line, a characteristic often associated with those with Down’s syndrome.”

Bought her own house, aged 21

In an interview with the BBC, two years ago, Ellie revealed that she had just bought a new house. As a successful model, working for the likes of Vogue, Gucci and London Fashion week, the star has carved out an incredible career for herself.

Sharing news of her first big purchase with her earnings, she said: "I've just bought a new house and I can't wait for Christmas. I love spending time with my nephew who is two and opening lots of presents. I love being his aunty and I give him lots of cuddles.

"I am proving people wrong and I am a role model for people like me. Doctors said I wouldn't talk but now I never stop talking! You should always believe in yourself.

"Never give up on your hopes and dreams, be who you are and always be happy. Just go out there and rock it!"

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