Oct
31
2015
My child is the sweetest most lovable little boy. He has the most gentle nature about him and just loves to be cuddled. He greets each day with the biggest smiles and gets so excited to watch his sisters play; he so desperately wants to join them. He adores it when people give him attention and has plenty of gummy smiles when someone talks to him. He’s always in a good mood. I love it the most when he giggles. His eyes start to twinkle and he has a belly laugh that makes me burst out laughing. It’s clear all he’s wants is to be loved.
It hasn’t been a question so much as a statement where people keep telling us you should be glad he doesn’t have “x.” There are so many families out there dealing with so much more but that doesn’t make anything any better. For anyone.
We didn’t find out until R was 3 weeks old and it was by far the most devastating news we ever received. It’s not an easy path, but there isn’t one second I didn’t wish that he wasn’t here. When you look into your child’s eyes you’ll realize that nothing else will matter and that baby will have the same needs as any other. It may not be the child you wanted, but it may just be the child you need.
A child just as any other.
Just to treat us and our child like any other. To be patient with us when we can’t join you because of an appointment. And know that your friendship will be invaluable.
Oct
30
2015
Samuel is all boy! He is rowdy and loud! He loves to play and wrestle. He loves his big bother and is always trying to imitate him. He can be extremely loving when the mood strikes. He LOVES Mickey Mouse!! We wouldn’t survive the day without his “B” (blanky). I think one thing I love most about him is the silly faces he makes, especially when he’s getting in trouble.
Congratulations! Having a child with down syndrome has been the biggest blessing. I wouldn’t have him any other way.
I would like for people to understand that sometimes bad behavior is not from lack of discipline, its from a lack of his understanding or not being able to communicate his needs or wants. I hate getting “looks” when he’s acting up. Its not easy when he gets over stimulated easily and doesn’t know how to deal with his feelings. I want people to see that he is one amazing little guy and we are just trying to enjoy our amazing journey.
I’ve had people ask if there will ever be a cure for down syndrome. I want people to realize that the “cure” is acceptance, understanding, encouragement, love and support. My baby is made perfect in the image of God. He was created the way he was meant to be. He teaches us patience, kindness, understanding. He shows what its like to love unconditionally and without question. I wish that I could be more like him.
Oct
29
2015
Ryan has Down syndrome. He loves to play ball, being silly, and being tickled. I love that when he smiles, his beautiful almond-shaped eyes crinkle into half moons. I love that he’s seemingly incapable of holding a grudge and quickly forgives.
Mostly we get people staring rudely at him versus asking intrusive questions.
I’m thankful that his disability is obvious from his facial features, especially when he’s behaving badly in public. Once people see him and realize he has Down syndrome, their rude looks usually soften with understanding. I feel for parents of children whose diabilities / special needs aren’t so readily apparent, because they have to endure the disapproving glares of strangers when their child is misbehaving or having a meltdown.
I’m thankful that his disability is obvious from his facial features, especially when he’s behaving badly in public. Once people see him and realize he has Down syndrome, their rude looks usually soften with understanding. I feel for parents of children whose diabilities / special needs aren’t so readily apparent, because they have to endure the disapproving glares of strangers when their child is misbehaving or having a meltdown.
Your child with Down syndrome will be the greatest gift you never would have asked for. All children present a variety of challenges, and those challenges are different for EVERY child, whether typically-developing or with special needs.
I wish they would see him as just an 8-year old boy. He’s rough & tumble, loves Ninja Turtles, sword fighting, dressing up like a pirate, shooting toy guns at his sister. He’s just like any big brother, except he has a bigger heart than anyone I know.
I would love for friends to offer occasional child care, even if just for an hour, and even if just while I’m home so I can get some housework done or go to the grocery.
Oct
28
2015
Olivia is pure joy, simply put. From the day she was born, she has brought happiness to all who meet her. People seem drawn to her amazing spirit. We feel honored to be her parents and truly blessed to be on this journey with her. What was a devastating prenatal diagnosis to receive is now a non-issue for us. Olivia is just Olivia. She loves to laugh, play, and explore just like her peers. Having an extra chromosome doesn’t change that.
Use “people first language”. For example, instead of saying”Downs baby/child” say “baby/child with Down syndrome”. Our loved ones with Down syndrome are NOT their diagnoses.
It really will be ok! Once you meet your sweet baby you’ll be so in love! Down syndrome isn’t what it used to be. Our kiddos can accomplish wonderful things thanks to early intervention.
I hope that people see potential when they meet Olivia, not limitations.
Our friends and family have been crucial in our journey. Knowing they love Olivia no matter what is really encouraging. Supporting inclusion and acceptance with us is a great way to show you care!
Oct
27
2015
Piper is our rainbow baby. Her daddy and I lost two pregnancies before we finally were blessed with the gift of her. Early in my pregnancy with Piper, I thought I lost her twice. But each time we went to the doctor her heart was beating strong. We knew she was special even then. She was strong, she was wanted, and she was loved. She is our baby, our blessing, our light. She likes to eat and sleep, and she loves her mommy and daddy’s hugs & kisses.
That she can consider herself so lucky that God has chosen her to love and care for His most special blessing, a baby more beautiful than she could ever imagine.
To see her beauty as we see it. To see the amazing little person she is.
Educate themselves on what Down Syndrome is, stop being afraid of the unknown.
