WDSD ~ Our Three reasons to CELEBRATE!!!

Today is World Down Syndrome Day. 

Our family celebrates the uniqueness of our children every day.  All 8 of our children are unique in their own right.  Some have 46 chromosomes and some have 47.  Some have blue eyes, some have green, one has brown, one has hazel...all are loved exactly the same!  They were each made for a specific purpose and are wonderfully, miraculously made.

 Psalm 139:13 says, 
"For You created my inmost being: You knit me together in my mother's womb."

Justin at 29 weeks

Justin ~ just minutes old and the picture of Baby Perfection!

Justin ~ Today

 ...and then there were THREE!

Michael ~ Today!

Matthew ~ Today!

So on this day, what do I want you to know about Down syndrome?

People with Down syndrome have one extra copy of the 21st chromosome.  There are actually three types of Down syndrome: Standard Trisomy 21, Translocation and Mosaic.  All three types have the extra 21st chromosome in varying degrees.  All of the chromosomes are perfectly normal, even the extra copy.  Having the extra 21st chromosome can cause characteristics and symptoms which vary between individuals.  Some people have very mild characteristics and symptoms while some people have more health and cognitive issues.  With modern medicine, health related symptoms can be successfully treated to minimize lasting effects. 


I want you to know that people with Ds are people first!  They are very capable, have great talents and abilities, and are destined to become great men and women of God.  They are smart, they are funny and yes, they have an extra 21st chromosome.  Down syndrome does not define them.  It is just one part of who they are.

We fully expect our boys to grow up to be independent young men, go to college, get married, work hard and have children....that's right, we expect all these things!  It is possible!  Many people who have Ds are already leading the way, crushing the stereotypes by doing these very things and living long, full lives.  We expect no less!  

And, yes, we also realize that not every person with Ds will achieve all of these things....for that matter, not every person without Ds will achieve all of these things.  Just sayin'...


Glad you stopped by to celebrate with us!  

Don't forget to spread the word to end the word!  There is NEVER a reason to use the r-word...ever!  RESPECT is the true R-word!  Use it!  Believe it!  Spread it!