To all of my Down Syndrome Mamas out there, you are incredible. 

I commend you for all of the ways that you support your loved one. For how you choose to love them, have patience for them, and provide them with the world.

Your efforts are seen, you are heard, you are acknowledged. 

I’ve seen my mom go through it all while raising Michael. From wondering how he was going to be accepted at school, to taking care of him every time he was ill, to constantly putting his needs before her own.

I’m beyond grateful for my Mama’s unconditional love. The moment we were born, she knew her twins were perfect. She knew at that moment she was going to take care of and love Michael and I forever.

While growing up, I never questioned angrily why Michael was different. I simply understood. My Mama always reassured me that I have a loving, kind, and sweet brother who may just need some extra support.

So many DS Mamas I meet are concerned with how their children will be affected by their sibling with an extra chromosome. Wondering if the siblings will feel like they’ve been placed with a burden, if they will even get along, if they will grow up loving or despising their #homiewithanextrachromie.

I may not be able to speak for everyone, but I will say I’m beyond grateful for having Michael in my life. 

I’m grateful for how he’s taught me unconditional love, patience, forgiveness, responsibility, and seeing others for who they are. I’m grateful that I’ve been given the chance to grow up early and learn how to support and take care of another human. 

Has it been an easy road? Hell no. Would I like it any other way? Absolutely not.

But when you look beyond those waves, you will find the beauty behind Down Syndrome. Growing up with Michael has been an adventure, and one that I’m proud of exploring. The life lessons he’s taught me along the way are ones you can’t find anywhere else. And I am committed to providing those with a voice who may not have one. 

Again, thank you Mamas for all that you do for your loved one. You are making a difference in the world. 

Special thank you to Dear Mom Conference for asking us this question. They’re an incredible nonprofit dedicated to sharing the loving stories of raising a loved one with Down syndrome to other Down syndrome Mamas.