“Why, why would you want a family to have a child with a... disability?” - Alisyn Camerota
What a question. Why would you?
You won’t have an easy life.
You won’t have as much money because of therapies, surgeries, hospital stays and doctor visits.
You may not have a child with a perfect face, or physique.
You may not have a child who can comprehend the world around them.
You may not have a child that fits in.
You may get funny looks, wanted or unwanted pity.
You may not have many years with them.
You may struggle with intense disappointment, or deep sorrow, extreme exhaustion.
You may not have answers, or know why.
But you know what you will also get?
A child who brings more joy and love into your life than you could ever imagine.
A child with their own unique personality, likes and dislikes.
A child who processes the world around them in a unique and different way than we can image.
A child who can change the world around them, by simply being themselves.
You may get many, many years with that child, or a few hours, or anything in between. Their lives have value. They are precious. They are a blessing. They are your child! Nothing and no one makes you love them less- not a heart defect; not a physical abnormality; not a learning disability; not an extra chromosome.
Seven Mercy White, our mama was offered the choice to have you killed when they found out you had a severe disability. There was no no cure. No surgery that could fix you. No medicine would have made it go away. But without a doubt, our parents knew they wanted you- you, and your extra lil’ chromosome. We wouldn’t change you if we could, sweet baby. The joy and love you bring into our lives is immense. Today, we celebrate you!!
To learn more about Seven and her Down Syndrome journey, watch this:
March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. This day is meant to spread awareness about Down Syndrome, and remind the world that people with Down Syndrome are valuable, precious lives- awesome individuals each with unique personalities! https://www.ndss.org/about-down-syndrome/down-syndrome/