When you invite someone to share their unique perspective on life with Down syndrome, something magical happens. I have loved watching the stories that have enfolded in this heartspace during October.
There have been reflections on the birth of a child with Down syndrome; on watching children starting school; finding support networks through prenatal diagnosis; and having more babies after a child with Down syndrome. There have been discussions on having a child with Down syndrome with regard to career choice and facing significant health challenges, and the many positive ways we are impacted by having a child with Down syndrome, even if the diagnosis is difficult to process. There have been informative and important discussions about various approaches to health, wellness, therapy and advocacy; and reflections from the perspective of a sister, as well as looking back over 21 years with a son. And all of these treasured stories share just a glimpse of the rich tapestry, the highs and lows, challenges and joys, that is life with Down syndrome.
Thank you to Ange, Gabi, Joelle, Lucinda, Etelka, Kylie, Ruth, Rebecca, Jocelyn, Julia, Kate, Kristen, Karlea and Lisa for trusting your stories, and being open to sharing them here on Mummalove during Down syndrome Awareness Month in October. It takes courage to share your perspective publicly and I feel honoured to have been entrusted with your beautiful words and images.
Thank you to everyone who has read the stories and left comments, support and encouragement for those who have written. Below is a list of all the posts that have appeared this month, in case there are any you missed. I would love for you to go back to your favourites and leave a comment for the writers, or share a post with someone you know.
It has been an honour and a privilege (albeit a little exhausting) to be here for 31 days in October and I am so grateful to you all for being part of this journey. Thank you, with all my heart.
~ Annie x
Ange ~ Before You Go Through the School Gates
Joelle ~ You Will Never Walk Alone
Etelka ~ A Study of Contrasts: Then & Now
Lucinda ~ I’m Not Cute, I’m a Woman
Kylie ~ The Doctor’s Son
Ruth ~ How My Child with Down syndrome has Ruined Me
Rebecca ~ Ryan Becomes a Big Brother
Jocelyn ~ This Mother’s Random Reflections on Starting School
Kate ~ Beats, Brains and Bodies: connecting with Music Therapy
Julia ~ Lessons in Living
Kristen ~ Postcard to Myself in December 2006
Karlea ~ Superhero
Lisa ~ On the Eve of 21
Gabi ~ Monday Health Talks: Optimum Diet; Complementary & Alternative Medicine; Nutritional Intervention; and Pathology Testing
Annie ~ So Lucky; When It’s Hard to Feel Grateful; Breathing Space; What Therapy Looks Like for our Child with Down syndrome; Flashback to 17 months; Navigating Through the Darkness – tough decisions after a prenatal diagnosis; Ten Things That Help Keep Our Marriage On Track.
