March 21 marks World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), a date that often sneaks up on busy parents like me. As the mother of two energetic toddlers, I sometimes lose track of the days. However, the buzz on social media about “rocking my socks” and “seeing the ability” reminds me that this meaningful occasion is here.
Being a part of the Down syndrome (DS) community is something I cherish, and I believe that every individual with DS deserves recognition every single day. Yet, I’ve found myself contemplating whether to participate this year. There are moments when I wish I could take a break from the realities of DS. For instance, one day I walked in on my typical daughter, Lily, unzipping the pajamas of my daughter with DS, Mia. Mia struggles with the strength and dexterity it takes to perform that simple task, which Lily, being younger, mastered months ago. While it was a sweet scene, it triggered a flash-forward in my mind, imagining a future where Lily might need to care for Mia in a very different way.
As I watch Lily play with her dolls, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness, realizing that the vision of her as a “good mommy” may not manifest in the way we dream. Thoughts of family vacations bring guilt as I ponder whether those funds could better serve Mia’s needs in the long run.
These worries are common among parents, right? We all have loved ones who have faced serious illnesses, chased dreams that remain unrealized, or experienced financial setbacks. However, the difference for us is that we’ve been aware of the challenges posed by DS since Mia’s birth. This knowledge has stripped away the ignorance that many parents enjoy, giving our concerns a weight that can be hard to bear. Unlike chronic issues that can fade into the background, DS is an ever-present part of our lives.
Despite the challenges, I’ve grown to embrace the unique aspects of DS. When I see other babies in the store, I often wish for a glimpse of those familiar features of DS. Each encounter with someone who has DS sparks an unspoken bond with families who understand the shared joys and struggles. DS is an integral part of Mia, but it doesn’t define her; it enhances her vibrant personality, making her the most enthusiastic, loving, and persistent person I know.
What once kept me awake at night—concerns that Mia would be judged solely based on her DS—has transformed into a source of pride. Mia’s presence has the power to change perceptions, challenging outdated beliefs about what it means to live with DS. I can genuinely say that my life is enriched daily by her existence. But that alone isn’t why I’m excited to celebrate WDSD this year.
Recently, Lily received a set of building blocks as a gift, which she has taken to with remarkable skill. Meanwhile, Mia faces challenges due to her fine motor delays, often struggling to fit the blocks together without toppling her creations. I watched as Mia, with unwavering determination, attempted to align a single block. When I offered to help, she confidently responded, “Help, no!”
In the time it took Mia to place one block, Lily had already arranged several into a flawless structure. While I felt a twinge of anxiety at Mia’s asymmetrical design, I couldn’t help but smile when I heard the satisfying click of success. Each time Mia succeeded, she sprang up to celebrate, showering me with high-fives and hugs.
Isn’t it true that we could all use a little more celebration in our lives? Each block placed, every lesson learned, and every small victory deserves recognition. If we embraced life with the same enthusiasm as Mia, we’d find ourselves overflowing with joy. She teaches me the value of perseverance and self-defined success, dancing to her favorite tunes and laughing at her own jokes. Adversity may be woven into her DNA, but so is her relentless spirit and unwavering joy in the little things.
This World Down Syndrome Day, let’s follow Mia’s lead. Celebrate the small victories, love one another despite differences, spread joy and high-fives, and build your own story in your unique way, regardless of outside opinions.
In conclusion, my journey as a mother to Mia and Lily has illuminated the beauty in embracing differences and celebrating life’s simple joys. As we recognize World Down Syndrome Day, let’s advocate, educate, and inspire love and acceptance for all.
Keyphrase: World Down Syndrome Day
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