For parents of children with disabilities: How have earlier interactions with individuals with Down syndrome – or other disabilities - influence (d) how you felt and feel about your child’s diagnosis?
Hmmm, growing up, I never knew anyone with Down syndrome. The only experience I ever had with it was watching "Life Goes On" faithfully! I LOVED that show. And when I was little I didnt even realize Corky had a disability! To me it was a regular ol family, just trying to get by!
I did however grow up around disabilities and differences.
See, I moved to Florida so my mom could come help out my aunt. My cousin was born with a little leg. She was going through some crazy surgeries and they needed us. My cousin never outwardly let it get her down. She was one of three daughters, and was the middle child. She was always, happy , energetic and upbeat. Even with all the stares and whispers, she just went on her merry way. Which taught me to do the same. I never looked at her as different. I never really noticed the casts, or scars, or lift attached to her shoe. We were just kids, we made up our own stuff - the shoes, yeah they were spice girl shoes! And I so desperately wanted to try it on!!
Growing up with someone "different" molded me into the mom I am today. It has softened the blows of the stares and whispers. It made life seem not so scary.
After high school, I volunteered with a hospital group of quadriplegics. The most amazing group of men, I had ever met! Some had been paralyzed since birth, some from accidents. They made me smile and love in ways unimaginable! I never saw them as their wheelchairs. Never. I saw them as a group of guys, who liked to have a great time!
My best friend growing up had a brother with cerebral palsy. He was such an awesome kid! And he was utterly in love with me. He was my little buddy. I admit, this one was a bit harder to swallow then most, as I couldnt understand what he said clearly all the time. But I adapted. And I still give him huge hugs when I see him! I watched him grow from a little boy to a grown man! And my life was changed because of it!
So when I got pregnant the second time, and I failed the AFP and they told me there was a chance of Down Syndrome. It didnt phase me. When my son was born, and our eyes met. There were no tears of sadness. There was utter joy.
Because my God prepared me for him. My God had my life planned before he was born. My God eased my mind. I wasnt scared. I was happy. I wasnt worried, I was in love.
My sons diagnosis doesnt own him. He is not Down syndrome. He just happens to have an extra chromosome. And an extra dose of special.
I was ready.
