Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Tonight I want to talk to everyone about Down Syndrome. There are a lot of stigmas and misconceptions regarding Down Syndrome so I think that it is important to help clarify some of those things. Here are some facts:

 1.   Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition caused by an extra 21^st chromosome. As a result, people with Down Syndrome have 47 chromosomes where typically people would have 46.

2.     It is important that you ALWAYS use person first language. Okay, I guess this one isn’t a fact, but it is one of my biggest pet peeves but most often people don’t realize that they are being offensive when they are saying things like “autistic” or “downs.” Down Syndrome, or Autism for that matter, does not define a person’s life. It is just a part of who they are. So, please don’t say, “D is downs” rather you can say, “D has Down Syndrome.”

3.     There is a misconception that people with Down Syndrome are always happy. While statistics show that 99% of individuals with DS are happy with their lives, resulting in this population being named ‘The Happiest People in the World,’ they still experience every emotion that you or I do.

4.     Children with Down Syndrome go through ALL the SAME stages of development as typical children, it just might take them a little longer to reach their milestones. One of the main reasons is because a characteristic of DS is low muscle tone. This can affect speech, gross motor, and fine motor skills. One of my favorite phrases is, “more alike than different” and it is so true!

5.     Individuals with DS experience a cognitive delay, however, the delay is typically mild. It is important to keep in mind that this delay does not determine their capabilities, strengths, or talents.

6.     Parents and siblings of individuals with Down Syndrome are not negatively affected nor are their lives burdened by their family member with DS. Most siblings and parents report that their family member with DS is one of their greatest gifts. You’ll often hear these families refer to themselves as “The Lucky Few.” This phrase, started by Heather Avis (an adoptive Mama who wrote a super inspirational book), has spread throughout the DS community and now we too are part of The Lucky Few.

7.     Despite what some people think, individuals with Down Syndrome can live independent lives. Many adults with Down Syndrome have jobs, attend college, or even marry.

8.     An astounding 93% of babies prenatally diagnosed with Down Syndrome are aborted. There have been many families who have reported that they were even encouraged by their doctors to abort. Advocates continue to work hard to change the perceptions people have of Down Syndrome and to decrease the number of abortions that are a result of this diagnosis. #SAVEDOWNSYNDROME

9.     Believe it or not, many people believe that life with Down Syndrome is not a life worth living. And, I am not just talking about the Country where D lives… I am talking about right here in the USA. Parents who share their prenatal diagnosis of DS are often responded to with “oh, I am so sorry.” Please, don’t be those people. There is nothing to be sorry about because they too are now a part of the lucky few. Instead, you should say “Congratulations!!”

10.  People with Down Syndrome are beautiful. YES, this one is indeed a fact!

Help us advocate for individuals with Down Syndrome with our new hat fundraiser!! 

Adjustable/Mesh Back- $15

FlexFit S/M or L/XL- $20 

XOXO

To place an order: 

Send payment to kmckay1020@gmail.com through Paypal, Venmo, or Zelle. 

Don't forget to comment with which style you want!!

(Include size for Flexfit hat)

If needed, please add shipping costs:

 $3 for one hat

$5 for two or more