National Down Syndrome Awareness Month!
Taken from the National Down Syndrome Society website "The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and the Down syndrome community invite the public to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month this October. There will be special opportunities across the country to learn about Down syndrome and to promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals born with this genetic condition.
"People with Down syndrome, like everyone else, are people first, each with their own unique gifts to contribute to their families, friends and communities," said NDSS Chief Operating Officer Jon Colman. "Down Syndrome Awareness Month provides a forum for dispelling stereotypes, providing accurate information, and raising awareness of the potential of individuals with Down syndrome."
Oct is when most of the Buddy Walks take place across the nation. Our BW is this Saturday, Oct 7. We're getting excited about the Walk and about getting so close to our goal! My dad is also flying in on Friday so he'll be able to attend the Walk with us too. We're looking forward to seeing him again since the last time we saw him was last Oct when he came out for the BW!
Since it is Ds Awareness Month I also wanted to mention a project I was honored to be a part of. It's a collection of personal stories compiled into a book called "Gifts - How Children With Down Syndrome Have Enriched Our Lives." There is a website about the book here (some parts of it are still under construction, but it's a great site to learn about the book!) and a photo montage of all the pictures that are in the book. This book will be available on Amazon in a few weeks. I'm so excited for it's release and wish there was something like this out there when Kayla was born.
The story I submitted is based off my post I wrote about the guilt I was feeling as Kayla's 3rd birthday was approaching. It's been edited, cleaned-up, and added details, but that's the basis of my story. I can't wait to see the finished product!
So, with this being October, I hope that I've been able to raise awareness about Down syndrome - what it is and what it isn't. I hope people have gained some new insight and perspective and realized it's not scary and it isn't something to be pitied. We're just parents raising our daughter.
So, consider yourself made aware now :)
23 comments:
I am just a puddle right now. The photo montage/song is absolutely beautiful and I can't wait to buy the book and read all the stories.
I am so thankful for this blog thing...I never knew there were so many parents out there that feel the same way we do. We just love our son. When we look at Jack, we see Jack. I am so, so glad that I found all of you.
Kayla is very blessed.
:)
Michelle, you and your family are so very blessed. It is always a joy to visit and see what is new in your very busy world. I will check out the links in a bit but I already can just imagine how uplifting and inspirational that book will be for other young families in simular situations. I am so happy I have met you and can call you a friend. Good luck in the Buddy Walk! Can't wait to get the book, just wish I could get an autograph...lol :)
BEAUTIFUL, EACH AND EVERYONE !!!! I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE BOOK COMING OUT TOO...LOVE MOM
Just beautiful....what a way to honor Kayla. Can I add the ribbon to my blog?
HUGS!!
All the best of luck on the walk on Saturday:-) You certainly have made me more aware of Down Syndrome and for that I thank you...I'm ashamed that I had never taken the time to learn about it before. Kayla has found a way in my heart and I will always look at these children with love:-) Hugs!
Beautiful post. . .Kayla is such a little angel; you are both such an inspiration.
Wow Michelle, what a moving story. I cannot wait for the book to come out. Kayla is sure one smart little cookie to pick you for her Momma!
Have a wonderful walk! I looked for one here and the closest I could find is across the country, but in my heart I will be walking with you!
I hope that the BW goes well. NSW DS is having their first 'Walk With a Mate' - a walk across Sydney's gorgeous Harbour Bridge and then a picnic in the Botanic Gardens. It should be a great day too. Here's to our wonderful kids and the amazing adults they are going to become.
After spending the week with you I know first hand that you and Joe are just parents raising your daughter. You're doing a great job too- she is wonderful. So smart and a little sassy, funny and so considerate. I miiiissss her and her big hugs.
I am way more aware now that i "know" you and Kayla. I thought I was there since I worked with adults with disabilities, however children change your heart. Thank you for sharing.
How sweet of your Dad to fly in for the buddy walk! Im going to check out the links in your post, you are such a special person Michelle, full of love and caring. I wish you luck on the buddy walk...now Im going to look at the links!
I looked at the links Michelle....the pictures of the children are so beautiful! They are all so very happy and lovable, and I read your post again, and I cried. I have never met you, but I dont need to meet you to know that you are one of the best Mothers around. And Kayla is such a babydoll! I love you both!
Thank you for the information. That is wonderful that you shared in the book. I will watch for it and recommened it to a few friends.
Wonderful post, Michelle! I can't wait for the book to come out either!
Have a great BW this weekend! We have 2, but the are both at the end of the month!
My DS Awareness contribution is next Saturday 10-14, Nascar Race, be sure to look for the DS decals on #29,#31,#07..Smiles, Denise
God picked the very best mommy for Kayla!! Could you let me know when the book, Gifts is available? I coulldnt get the email to send to get on the list. I really want a copy of that and probably have a school here that I volunteer for that is only for Downs Syndrom children. I want to tell the parents where they can get the book. Thanks Michelle.
That photo montage was beautiful, I sat here cryin. I think you have done a wonderful job making us all aware!! I'm sure you've done more than you realize just through your blog and all the adorable pictures of Kayla. Who could look at her and not realize what a precious gift she is?!
What a beautiful montage! Kayla is so luckly to have you as a mom!
I can't wait for the book to come out! I'm going to buy copies to give out at Christmas to family members!
The pictures and the song were so beauitful and moving.Have a great walk! I hope you do raise alot of money.
I have an almost 10 year old daughter with Down Syndrome and was completely unaware of that.
We are all so blessed!
What a beautiful montage! Thanks for the link, Michelle.
I was thinking about you today! I hope you had a great time!! Can't wait to see all your good time pics.
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