Caroline Campbell

August 2025 Issue

by Mary Hope Roseneau
Photography by Cassidy Dunn Photography

Life is all about playing the hand you were dealt like it’s exactly what you wanted. That’s how 32-year-old Caroline Campbell, who was born with Down syndrome, moves through her days and approaches the things she sets her mind to. You may have heard of Caroline and her adventures and accomplishments because she’s done some amazing things, exemplifying dedication, positivity, and cheerfulness in all she does.

In the June 2014 edition of Pink, we first met Caroline as an active 21-year-old who enjoyed taking dancing lessons and singing at church. However, her biggest claim to fame is she had set out to handwrite the Bible word-for-word. We are thrilled to announce she has completed this task, filling up 47 three-ring notebook binders, all stored carefully in her bedroom. Her Christian faith is a big part of her life, and she loves and reads scripture daily.

We caught up with Caroline again just two months ago in the June 2025 issue of Pink, as she and her mother, Jennifer Campbell, serendipitously met another mom and her Downs daughter, who were visiting from New York, at Coligny Beach at the site of the tragically beached whale. The two moms had never met in person, but they had spoken nearly 34 years earlier and somehow an unlikely recognition came to light. Fate had brought these two ladies together twice. First was when Mary Gordon had given birth to her daughter, Samantha, who was also born with Down’s, in Oswego, New York. At the bequest of a mutual friend, she called to counsel Jennifer in South Carolina about the joys and challenges of having a baby with Down’s when Caroline was born. After their meeting at Coligny Beach, Caroline and Samantha have become best friends and text each other daily. Jennifer and Mary also stay in touch.

Caroline attended Beaufort public schools through middle school, was homeschooled by her mom for high school, and graduated from the Community Bible Christian Academy in 2013. She went on to attend a vocational rehab program, which taught her a menagerie of important job skills, such as being punctual and dependable on your job, how to deal with the public, and some of the ins and outs of social etiquette. Through this program, Jennifer heard Zaxby’s was hiring. Caroline interviewed and landed the job! And it has been a perfect fit for both Caroline and Zaxby’s for eight years now!

She works three days a week at Zaxby’s in Beaufort, noticeably approaching every task with enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility. Her colleagues often remark on her reliability, attention to detail, and willingness to help others—traits that all contribute greatly to the workplace environment. She won the highest award, “Employee of the Year” in 2018 and was recognized at the local “Night of Champions” event! Caroline was over the moon—so excited.

Her job duties at Zaxby’s include cleaning the dining and bathroom areas, taking the trash out as needed, putting DoorDash orders on a special shelf, and being a help to customers in any way, for example, bringing condiments, straws, and napkins when needed. She wipes tables and trays as soon as guests leave and tosses anything left behind. Just take a look at Zaxby’s shining dining room in Beaufort the next time you visit; there is a definite difference from many fast-food restaurants. That difference is Caroline!

Her wonderful work ethic is evident in her punctuality and consistency, as well as her eagerness to learn new skills and take on new challenges. Whether working independently or as part of a team, Caroline handles her job duties with care and pride. And her cheerful attitude and genuine appreciation for her job inspires those around her, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.

Her boss, Bill Geiger enjoys having her on board: “Caroline is the sweetest, most genuine person I have ever had the pleasure to know. She radiates generosity and positivity at all times. One cannot help but to have their day improved just by talking with her for a few minutes. Her work ethic is second to none, and there are many who would benefit from emulating her in that regard. She is a fan favorite with our customer base, and our staff adores her. In short, I cannot imagine Zaxby’s of Beaufort without Caroline and her
infectious presence.”

Beyond the workplace, Caroline continues to love life and participate in many activities, such as art lessons and summer travel visiting relatives. Her church friends are particularly important to her, as well as her new long-distance bestie, Samantha.

Caroline’s enthusiasm and kindness leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets; she simply radiates love and joy. And one more thing Caroline truly loves that we can all relate to: “I get paid every two weeks, and I like to go shopping! Don’t we all, Caroline? Don’t we all!