#321 World Down Syndrome Day Is The Reason Why This Post Is Short And Why I'm Busy

Today is World Down Syndrome Day.

Though celebrated since 2006, this is the first year the date is officially recognized by the United Nations. This date, the 21st day of the third month of the year, symbolizes the third copy of chromosome 21 present in Trisomy 21, the most common form of Down syndrome.

I imagined I’d have a lovely, wordy post for you but alas I do not. Why not, you say? I have a Psychology midterm tomorrow. Also, I have to submit a thesis and outline for a major speech. And work on a research paper. Life sometimes goes in directions we may not always plan or want them to. You adapt. Like Dory from Finding Nemo, you keep swimming. I’m swamped right at this time, with school, non-profit, other community things, and my blogs. I didn’t plan my day to day schedule to be so full, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Why? Because it’s all being done for reasons. I have actual goals that I’ve set up to align with a vision I have. I want to use the college courses I’m taking not only for myself, but also to fulfill my dream of being an effective advocate for my youngest son and others with Down syndrome. I didn’t plan to have these hectic days, but here they are and I’m just fine with it. Although sometimes I wish there were a few more hours in a day. Just sayin… Sometimes extras are a good thing. Like with cheesecake. Or chocolate covered Oreos. Or a chromosome.
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I didn’t know that my youngest son was going to have Down syndrome before birth. Had I known I wouldn’t have changed a thing, but that’s another discussion. He has made me a better woman, a better mother, a better advocate and a better person all around. He has given me so many things that I didn’t know that I was looking for or missing. I love him with all my heart and soul and wouldn’t change a thing. To me he is beauty, he is innocence, he is love. Sure, we have our challenges, but having him in my life is worth every one.
I went to Washington DC at the end of February to participate in the Buddy Walk On Washington, a two day advocacy event.
This is the New Jersey group with Congressman Jon Runyan.

This is the New Jersey group with Congressman Chris Smith.

I also participated in a two day leadership convention hosted by the Down Syndrome Affiliates In Action while I was there. These two events truly inspired me to pursue my vision even harder and make it happen. Not just for me, but for my son, and for others. People that deserve to have a voice, be heard, have rights, and be treated respectfully.
So I leave you with this video, as I have to finish studying for my Psych exam and be up in five hours. I’d probably write longer but right now the education means something and will impact my vision. I can’t let up. It’s too important for me, and even more important for them. For families within the Down syndrome community, every day is World Down Syndrome Day.

Please help Spread the word to end the word.