Today is World Down Syndrome Day, a day where individuals with Down Syndrome are recognised and celebrated. Today's date represents the 3 copies of the 21st chromosome that all people with Down Syndrome have. I myself have so much to celebrate in Chloe. She has added so much dimension and colour and happiness to our lives which I did not expect when I was told of her diagnosis. I have been in awe … [Read more...]
Back to school guide for children with special needs
The summer holidays are nearly over and we have really enjoyed spending this time with each other and our family and friends. Like all other families, these final days will be spent getting ready for a brand new school year. New books will be contacted, stationery will be labelled, uniforms will be ironed and bags will be packed. This will be the same for Chloe but in addition to this, I will be … [Read more...]
Four things you might not want to say to a parent of a child with Down syndrome
I don't write much about Down syndrome these days because, from an emotional perspective, it has become such a small part of my life. Writing about Down syndrome in my blog helped me come to terms with Chloe's diagnosis and I can say, for the most part, I am OK with it now and I look back on that time with very different eyes. These days, I don't feel the need to share our day to day … [Read more...]
Choosing a school for your child with special needs
Selecting a school is one of the most important decisions you will make for the future of your child. It can be daunting and overwhelming for some parents - especially those who have a child with special needs. As parents, we want our child to have every opportunity to grow up to be the best they can be and their school plays a very big role in this. We are currently deciding on a primary … [Read more...]
Our bubble
We are now nearly three and a half years into our journey with Chloe in the world of Down syndrome and special needs. As time has gone on, our family life is completely normal. Chloe's annual pediatric and specialist checkups and weekly early intervention are all just part of our routine. We are in our safe and happy bubble where life is easy and happy and everything works. Progress is being … [Read more...]
World Down Syndrome Day: Sisters
Today is World Down Syndrome Day and our family is celebrating this journey of love, acceptance and joy that we find ourselves on thanks to our little Chloe. When I first found out about Chloe's condition, one of my first reactions was sadness for Emma. I had certainly not planned on giving her a sister with Down syndrome and it worried me how this was going to impact her life. Some people … [Read more...]
A letter to a new mum… whose baby has Down Syndrome
Dear new mum Before I say anything about Down Syndrome, I firstly want to congratulate you on the birth of your beautiful, precious baby. Your baby is unique and special and perfect - just like all the other babies who have been born today. Instead of feeling the usual joy and excitement after the birth of a new baby, you may also be feeling a combination of many other things right … [Read more...]
Things I have learned about Down syndrome
To follow on from a previous post about October being Down syndrome awareness month, I wanted to share what I personally have learned about Down syndrome. Prior to having Chloe, I was completely ignorant to the world of special needs - Down syndrome in particular. Sure, I knew what the condition was but I realise that my perception was completely off the mark in comparison to the reality. I … [Read more...]
Step Up and Walk 2012
On Sunday, our family and friends "Walked with Chloe" at the Step Up and Walk for Down syndrome fundraising event at Lake Monger. I was so touched by the amazing turn out of loved ones who came to walk with us. Thank you all so much for the love and support you have shown our family. Sorry Bec, this is one of the photos you took. (I chose it because I thought I looked pretty good - … [Read more...]
October: Down syndrome awareness
October is Down syndrome awareness month and I confess that I didn't even realise this until yesterday when I saw some friends post about it on Facebook. Aren't I a great advocate!A few weeks ago, Chloe and I visited a beautiful family at King Edward hospital who welcomed a gorgeous new baby girl born with Down syndrome. One of the questions the new mum asked me was how do I divide my … [Read more...]