The Down Syndrome Community
Before you become a parent of a child with Down Syndrome, you know that it exists, but you have no idea to what extent. You might see children with Down Syndrome in schools, or an adult with Down Syndrome working in your town, but before you are a part of it, you are oblivious to the extensive community of people who are connected to Down Syndrome in some way. However, this community is everywhere. When you become tuned in, you start to notice articles, advertisements, TV shows, movies, playgroups, facebook posts, blogs, books...all dedicated to Down Syndrome. The community is expansive and welcoming. The members of this community "get it"...get the challenges we face, get the immense potential that our children have, and get that our children are as much valued individuals in society as the next person. It's a really great community to be a part of, once you discover it.
Since moving to New Hampshire, we have become immersed in the Down Syndrome community. Ty has friends with Down Syndrome from all over New England, and I am fortunate enough to know their parents. These people understand patience, and determination, and unconditional love. It's refreshing to be surrounded by people who share my same interest in Down Syndrome, though it's only a part of what we talk about. Somehow there is just an unspoken understanding, no matter how different our lives may be, and we click.
So I wanted to use today's post to introduce you to some other members of this amazing community, by sharing their blogs. I hope it's apparent why I love being a part of this community so much!
These are just a few (and yes, the first three are my friends' blogs!). I've been reading so, so, so many different blogs this month of people who are participating in the "31 for 21 Challenge", there are just too many that I love to list here right now! I'll share some of my favorite posts later this month. In the meantime, take some time to visit the official "31 for 21" page where all those who are participating are listed, with links to their blogs. It will keep you busy for a while! :-) Enjoy!
