down's syndrome day

 

Today is World Down's Syndrome Day. It's a day to celebrate some of the best people our world possesses, and a day I celebrate one of my best little buds. 

It's hard to even wrap my mind around the idea that we need a Down's Syndrome Awareness day. It's hard to think that not everyone realizes Down's Syndrome is a beautiful gift. But then again, I remember what it was like before I knew Remi. I remember not knowing if someone with Down's Syndrome could understand me, or if they could talk, or if I could even hold a conversation. I would have avoided someone with Down's Syndrome because I could see they were different from me, and that left me uncertain and afraid. 

Remi changed all that. In so many ways he is just like any other kid. He and his brother love laughing at jokes about poop and farts and running around naked together in the house. He thinks its hilarious whenever I drop something or make a silly mistake. He's a picky eater, is obsessed with Frozen, the Grinch, and Toy Story, and loves learning, singing, and spending time with his favorite people. 

And in a lot of ways, he's not like normal kids. His speech has been slower to develop and harder to understand, which makes it all the more rewarding when we listen to him talk now and finally get a window into his funny, sweet, imaginative mind. Social interactions can be difficult for him to figure out, and he's not always aware of his own safety. But he's also different in some of the best ways. He's the guy that'll sit with me for hours at a time just singing songs. He's always ready to laugh. He loves his special people so deeply. He's the first to greet a stranger and brings a smile wherever he goes. 

I saw a statistic recently that 99% of people with Down's Syndrome report that they are happy and fulfilled in their lives. Knowing Remi, I'm not surprised in the slightest. He wakes up every day expecting wonderful things, and because he expects them, he seems to find them everywhere. He has caused me to stop, slow down, and enjoy moments I would have passed by. 

So on World Down's Syndrome Day, I just have a few simple things to say. First, thank you to all the people with Down's Syndrome out there in the world. You remind us that everyone matters, everyone has something beautiful to offer the world just by being themselves. Second, if you are afraid or unsure about Down's Syndrome, you're not alone. But getting to know someone with Down's is just like getting to know anyone else - start with a smile, and see what happens next. And of course lastly, thank you Remi, and your whole sweet family, who has given me more than I could have ever asked for. I didn't know my heart could be so full. I'll love you forever, sweet boy. 

Happy World Down's Syndrome Day!