3.21
(3 copies of the 21st chromosome)
I just deleted everything I have been writing, because I don't know how to express what I'm thinking right now. Luke is lucky. He was born in a place where he receives Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy. Luke will receive Medicaid to help him with medical costs throughout his life. He will get housing assistance, food assistance, and be eligible for job programs as he grows up. Luke is also surrounded by people that love him and want him to be successful.
I wish I could say these things for all children around the world who have Down syndrome, or any disability, but I can't. It's sad and depressing to know that there are many children put in institutions and hidden away before they are Luke's age. Luke is thriving. But I can't imagine he would be doing this well if he didn't have so many people working with him and encouraging him. No child will ever reach their full potential without love, support and resources.
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| Luke at Physical Therapy |
I know that there are people from Canada, South Korea, Australia, Russia, Germany, United Kingdom, India and Brazil (among many others) who read this blog. I don't know who you are, and I don't know if you have a story to tell - but if you do, please consider writing to me or commenting on this post. I would love to learn more about Down syndrome around the world from you, and not just from the internet.
Every month Luke goes to music therapy with some of his friends. I decided to add these photos after reading a few profiles on Reece's Rainbow page where music was mentioned. As a music educator myself, I love the reminder that music is something children all over the world love and are inspired by.
Happy World Down Syndrome Day!
I love your posts, Claire. Great pictures too! Your kids are so lucky that you're their mommy. Hope it's a great World Down Syndrome Day in Decorah!
ReplyDeleteJenn Hoesing
Thanks Jenn! It was fun looking at your blog page - what a cute family!!!
DeleteI know what's in your heart. If someone, somewhere on the planet with the power over a given circumstance will turn and look at a pregnancy, a baby, a toddler or an adult with Down Syndrome in a new way, with new understanding, with a perspective from thousands of miles away in a home in Decorah, Iowa USA that is showing the day-to-day normalcy of an extraordinary thing. . .which is extraordinarily normal. . .then all five of you are reaching the world.
ReplyDeleteLove, Julie
Exactly! I need you to write for me!! Thank you for this comment :)
DeleteLuke is absolutely adorable! And music class looks like a very good time! Happy World Down Syndrome Day!
ReplyDelete