Did you know that today is World Down Syndrome day? (It’s okay to say no… I didn’t know either until recently.) This day was created six years ago to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome. It’s a day for celebrating and joyous occasions, it’s certainly not a sad day.
My little Molly was diagnosed with Down syndrome very soon after birth. It’s hard for me to even put into words the overload of emotions that I experienced those first few days. I was scared and worried for my daughter. Now, nine months later – I may still be scared and worried..but I’m motivated and inspired my Molly. She’s a tough girl who deserves to be recognized as a determined and precious baby…she just happens to have an extra chromosome!
My fellow blogging friend and special needs mom Shannon over at Life’s Little Surprises created Project 3.21 as a way for friends, family and the social media world to show their support for World Down Syndrome day. This project was created in hopes that others would share their support for the Down syndrome community by making a donation to the National Down Syndrome Society. This organization is a fantastic resource for families and also provides a voice for those with Down syndrome.
Do you have a personal connection with Down syndrome? If so, I’d love for you to share it with me.
ps…I’m frantically writing a #DisneySMMoms post about my conference experience! Stay tuned!
Comments
April
When I was pregnant with my first baby I had a lot of personal issues going on. I moved back to St. Louis and found a job that would hire me with full benefits at 5 months pregnant. I was a para at a school and got paired with a Down’s Syndrome boy named Tyler. Well, I fell in love instantly. I swear that boy could do no wrong in my eyes, even though he was an actual little devil at times-lol. I have thought about him over and over through the years. He is now in 10th grade!! My experience with Tyler has made me have a very special place in my heart for children with Down’s. Once all of my children are in school, my goal is to volunteer for the Albert Pujols Foundation. AP has a daughter with Down’s Syndrome and he is constantly having events for all of the children affected in town.
I’m sure that you were shocked and saddened at Molly’s diagnosis but I have no doubt that she has been and will continue to be a blessing in your life.
Carrie with Children
That is a great story, April – thanks for sharing! Tyler sounds like a great kid, what a great opportunity you had to work with him! The Albert Pujols Foundation sounds fantastic! 🙂
Pam King
No I did not know anything about this but I’m learning so much from your blogs.
Shahzina
Well said , check this one out !
Not a Perfect Mom
Happy World Down Syndrome Awareness Day! My fourth child was born with DS, but we knew prenatally…whether or not that made it easier, who knows?
Brooke’s 14 months old now and whatev, she’s just another kid in our crazy fam…you know?
come by and check her out, if you’d like…she’s super cute! haha!
Carrie with Children
I’m so glad you found my site today! Happy World DS Day to you! Your Brooke is absolutely precious! I can totally relate when you say “she’s just another kid in our crazy fam”.. that’s exactly how we feel about our Molly! 🙂
Molly @Mallaidh
Such a beautiful little girl!
Carrie with Children
Thank you so much! <3
Shannon
Thank you Carrie 🙂
Carrie with Children
You are so welcome Shannon! I love spreading the word about any DS related events! Hope you (and Miss Fiona) are doing well!
april narretto
so happy to find another Ds blogger to follow :)…Happy belated world Down Syndrome day…you doll is precious 🙂
Carrie with Children
Hi April, thanks for your nice words about my Molly! I’m so glad you found me! I’m always excited to find other DS bloggers! Running over to check out your site now!
Lorie Shewbridge
So glad to meet you at Disney.
Molly is adorable in that photo and I’m glad you posted about World Down Syndrome day for everyone to know.
Your Molly and the children like her are such special people who have lots to give to the world, they just happen to have an extra chromosome. 🙂
D Marie
Carrie- you are so connected and well respected in the Downs community. Perhaps you might spread today’s #topten to build support for the Special Olympics? The World Games are quickly approaching, and we would love to increase the visibility of the program for the sake of our athletes. My enrty: 10 Simple Ways to Support the Special Olympics at http://www.distherapy.com/2011/04/top-ten-tuesday-10-simple-ways-to.html
Thanks so much, DM