Thoughts On Down Syndrome
2012 – A Time For Reflection
Dear Friends, October has significance beyond Halloween for those of us touched by Down Syndrome. It is also National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Every October, the spotlight seems to shine brighter on people with Down Syndrome. A greater number of groups host awareness walks and fundraising events, and more parents share facts, pictures and stories on websites,…
Read MoreGetting Acquainted
When Nick was younger, I had the frequent privilege of speaking to new parents about Down syndrome. Some conversations were brief and informational. “Do you know a good pediatrician who specializes in children with Down syndrome?” “What can I do to help with my baby’s development?” Other conversations were lengthy and personal. “How did you…
Read MoreA Morning of Gratitude
This morning, I stumbled upon a George Will article about his son Jon from last year, when Jon was turning 40. Reading it reminded me not only about how far we have come in the Down syndrome movement, but how instrumental people like George Will (through his well articulated and direct articles about Jon and…
Read More2011 – The New “R” Word – Respect
Dear Friends, The power of language touches us daily. The compliment that makes us smile; the rude comment we can’t shake. Our word choices impact people. They reflect our values, our moods and our social awareness. Social awareness? Often times people use words without a sense of how they affect others. This has become the…
Read More2010 – In Good Company
Dear Friends, This year Down Syndrome Foundation celebrates its 10th year of service to our community. Its formation came about shortly after a road trip to Las Vegas. The birth of our son Nick, who was two at the time, had catapulted us into the disability world and a local community ill-equipped to support us.…
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