October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
I have no idea when October was designated as the month to bring education and awareness to the country about Down syndrome,
but I've known about it now for 13 years.
Anthony was born with it and the "awareness" for us, came in June.
I think back now, and giggle at the fact,
that I became "aware" I was pregnant in October.
I have spoken to churches, schools, and doctors about Down syndrome in order to create awareness and educate. I did it a lot in Iowa, some in St. Cloud and even Fargo. I can tell you about the chromosome stuff, the many possible medical and developmental concerns that come with it and the many effective therapies you can do to help a child grow to their potential.
But, it really doesn't create awareness to throw out stats and science.
People become "aware" when there is a name, a face or
an experience to go with it.
I never noticed people with Down syndrome like I do now.
Because now it means something to me.
And it means something to my husband, and our daughters, and our family and friends.
Our awareness is heightened now.
Our education is personal now.
Our appreciation is deeper now.
Because of this little boy.
Who has made us "aware":
Of how delicate and fragile life can be.
Of just how close you can come to losing a life.
Of how much we take for granted.
That some of the most simple things, are the really big things.
That some of the easiest things, can be really hard.
That major miracles can come in the form of baby steps.
That in order to speak, get dressed, alternate steps on a staircase, or write your name in a straight line - can take years and years of practice, because SO MUCH goes into those things.
That hitting a pitched ball can make you stand up and shout!
That when he reads a book, zips his coat, does his homework or pushes the pedals on a bike - you can be moved to tears.
That life can be completely unpredictable.
That there is a bigger plan.
That there is such a thing as unconditional love.
That when he finally becomes more independent and you need to take a back seat -
you have to catch your breath, and find the chair before you fall down.
That although dreams change, dreams still exist.
That a million things can be said, without a single word.
That a hug can change everything.
That a true friendship is a rare gift.
That caring for someone so much can be thrilling and terrifying at the same time.
That some people just get it. And some just don't.
That people do still stare, and say mean things, and judge.
And that people do love, and accept, and encourage.
That you can hurt, and cry, and be so exhausted and frustrated.
And that you can have more patience, love, and joy than you ever thought imaginable.
It's one thing to learn about Down syndrome.
It's another to learn about someone with Down syndrome.
