I recently came across an article wherein the author discussed his preconceived notions of what people with Down Syndrome are like. He then engages in a conversation with a person with DS, and it changes his whole point of view.
I really enjoyed the article, and I have to say that it really hit home. I have never had much contact with people with special needs. When you first have a baby with special needs you read everything out there: the books, the blogs, the outdated printed material. And I have to tell you the outlook didn't seem great. I have tried to keep an open mind about Lucy, but I must admit that there are times when I am shocked when she accomplishes a "typical" task. No one ever told me she wouldn't, but I guess I just assumed that she wouldn't be doing certain things. Don't get me wrong, I treat her just like all the other kids, but there are times when she surprises me. And I love that about her! She is reminding me everyday that Down Syndrome is a part of who she is, and that it doesn't define her.
Truthfully I love when she surpasses people's expectations of her in public, because there are people who definitely have some preconceived notions about what she is capable of doing. People have some crazy ideas about what people with DS are like (trust me some of them even like to share these ideas), but I know when they see Lucy they can't help but notice how "handi capable" she is.
I encourage you to take a sec, and read the article: http://open.salon.com/blog/rogerf1953/2011/02/18/today_i_may_have_actually_learned_something
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2 comments:
This little beauty is defined by her family! We who see this little tornado up close know this without being told. Her brothers and her father, but mostly her wonderful mom.
We truly appreciate your educating us with these articles, but as her grandfather I'll stick to my belief, she is as she is because she is.
We love you dudes.
P.S.
Cool Blog Rhys.
Thanks Kelly, for the article...!
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