Last year I’d posted something on Facebook every day of the month [sorry blog] - this year, just here and there when I have time.
I read this article by another Mom which wrapped up my thoughts and feelings very well.
Down’s Syndrome: A Disaster?
(Mind you, she’s not from North America, therefore uses “Down’s”)
Down syndrome is not a “severe disability” nor “incompatible with life.” Perhaps a little different than expected, a few challenges, and lots of unknowns.
We can’t predict our typical kids’ futures either. Many typical kids can have speech difficulties, heart defects, walk later, tube fed, live with you as an adult… but why is Down syndrome seen as such a disaster?? Granted, I had the same “disasterous” thoughts when we learned Hannah’s diagnosis... but I chalk it up to being uninformed and uneducated.
With more access to NIPTs [non invasive pregnancy tests], it makes me sad that the Ds community could diminish. We should be careful what this society sees as “perfect.” We all have a contribution to make. We all have different abilities.
Our friends who spend time with us (I think) can attest that we’re still the same family they knew before having Hannah. Our hurdles are now blips on our radar. If anything has changed us, it was simply having a SECOND child.
“Until you’ve lived in a certain situation, or with a child or adult with Down’s Syndrome, you can’t really imagine what it’s like. You project what you imagine it to be like. Fear of the unknown will almost certainly play a part… Families ADAPT and are genuinely and properly enjoying life.”
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