I want people to learn and understand that having a child with Down syndrome is not a burden. Please don’t feel sorry for us. And please don’t ever tell someone of a child with Down syndrome that you’re sorry for them. There is nothing to be sorry for! Are there challenges? Of course! Aren’t there challenges with any child? We have been blessed beyond measure with Eliza in our lives. We have experienced the purest form of love. We have learned to see the world through a different lens. A clearer lens that others typically get to view. We are so lucky!
Instead of staring, or giving a weird look, try to make a conscious effort to smile, wave, say “Hello!” Honestly, that’s for any parent and child that has any disability. It’s a simple act of kindness. Eliza loves to engage in conversation, give high fives and fist bumps, and she’s the best hugger around. She has turned so many people’s bad days into good just being around them, even if it’s for a few minutes. She has a way of getting through to people. Even if it’s the grumpiest man in line at the post office. (Which she did!) She will get you smiling and having a conversation with her.
I want people to know and see that having a child with a different ability isn’t scary. There is no “normal” human being. We each have our own way of doing things, our own quirks, our own likes, and our differences. That’s what makes each of us special.