As I rock my son tonight I think of all the reasons I’m glad he is in my life. His perfectly laid blonde hair frames his face in a newfound way that says, “I am no longer an infant; I am a boy.” And although there are days that I’d love to keep him young, shielded and unafraid, I know that we cannot change the world together without growing older.
My son has Down syndrome. And although that will never define him, I will always use it as a means to try to educate and better society. As I’ve said one million times before, it’s not upon accident that he is my child, and it won’t be upon accident that his purpose will reach far and wide. No, he’s not a showcase. But intentionally educating people about differences, inclusion and what makes him him, is part of our mission. I just know it.
March 21st (03/21) is World Down Syndrome Day. Why March 21st? Well, because Down syndrome is caused by having three of the 21st chromosome. That third chromosome creates a set of traits (which is why it is known as a “syndrome,”) that are fairly common among people with Down syndrome. There are developmental delays due to that extra chromosome’s impact on the genes in the body and there are physical differences that are often characterized as “Down syndrome traits.” And just like everything else, there are generalizations and stereotypes. And just like generalizations and stereotypes go, there is some truth, but not a single truth. My son is not a single truth.
My son is almost 15 months old. He cannot pull to stand and he hasn’t a clue what to do with a crayon. But he can point to anyone’s nose and he can say “mama” like the best of them. My son has a huge sense of humor and he can dance and clap the night away. When comparing my two older daughters to my son, it is easy to see what he cannot do in regards to milestones my girls once hit with ease. But nothing – NOTHING – compares to his two arms that wrap tightly around my neck when I ask for a hug. My girls never hugged with the level of sincerity and intention that he does. His long lasting embrace once again reminds me that this life is oh-so-very important AND needed. Not just by me, but by many. If only all people could feel his embrace like I’m able to.
I feel compelled to continuously remind myself and those around us that Down syndrome is nothing to be afraid of. The unknown can indeed be scary, but normalizing Down syndrome and minimizing, yet celebrating, differences truly helps to relieve any fear and concern for my son’s future.
My hope for those around me is that you help him and I do the same. It’s okay to point out that my son is different, but please do not be afraid of the differences. Ask questions when you have them – I truly do not mind. Please, PLEASE, treat him like a typical child, for he has all the same needs and emotions as every other human being. And for heaven’s sake, do not feel sad for him or anyone else in my family. We are lucky to be touched by this amazing and gentle soul.
For those of you who are interested in showing your support on March 21st, consider wearing silly socks in honor of Down Syndrome. When asked about your silly socks, share your support of people with Down syndrome and how you hope to remove the stigma associated with Down syndrome while also normalizing differences. I know the support is felt near and wide by moms like me just making a plea for my son.
For more information on World Down Syndrome Day, see https://worlddownsyndromeday.org/
