Breaking Down Myths and Building Community

On a special Saturday night, surrounded by a community of love and acceptance, two moms took the stage at GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati’s A Little eXtra Luck Gala to share their journey. Board members Anna Shelton and Whitney Carver may have met under unique circumstances, but their bond is one that many families within the Down syndrome community understand—both are mothers to children with Down syndrome. Their speech was a testament to the power of connection, advocacy, and the unwavering support of GiGi’s Playhouse. Despite advancements in awareness, many misconceptions about Down syndrome still exist. Anna and Whitney took the opportunity to break down some of the most common myths…

Dispelling the Myths About Down Syndrome

Myth 1: Down syndrome is a rare disorder.
Truth: It is the most common chromosomal condition, with 1 in 775 babies born with Down syndrome in the U.S. each year—amounting to around 5,000 new diagnoses annually.

Myth 2: Down syndrome is hereditary.
Truth: Only about 1% of all cases are hereditary.

Myth 3: Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.
Truth: While advanced maternal age increases the chance of having a baby with Down syndrome, 51% of children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35. Anna was 39 when she had her daughter, Izzy, while Whitney was just 27 when she had Knox.

Myth 4: People with Down syndrome cannot be active members of their community.
Truth: Life expectancy has increased significantly, from 25 years old in 1983 to 60 years today. People with Down syndrome attend school, work, vote, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to their communities in so many ways. Organizations like GiGi’s Playhouse provide educational and therapeutic programs that support individuals with Down syndrome in leading fulfilling lives.

Myth 5: People with Down syndrome are always happy.
Truth: Individuals with Down syndrome experience the full range of emotions just like anyone else. They form deep friendships and, just like others, can feel hurt by inconsiderate behavior.

Myth 6: Adults with Down syndrome are the same as children with Down syndrome.
Truth: Adults with Down syndrome have similar needs and aspirations as their typical peers. At GiGi’s Playhouse, we prioritize creating dedicated spaces and programs specifically for adults.

The Impact of GiGi’s Playhouse

For both Anna and Whitney, GiGi’s Playhouse has been a life-changing part of their family’s journey.

Anna shared, “GiGi’s has given my whole family a place where we feel accepted, no matter what. Izzy gets the education and services she needs, while my other children learn about acceptance by playing alongside individuals with different abilities. For me, it has been a source of comfort—knowing Izzy has a place where she can always be herself.”

Whitney echoed that sentiment, saying, “GiGi’s is a home away from home. From the moment we walk in, we are welcomed with smiling faces. My husband, Tyler, and I have found a supportive network of parents who understand our journey. That kind of connection is invaluable.”

A Call to Action: Ensuring a Future of Acceptance

Both moms have dedicated themselves to ensuring that GiGi’s Playhouse continues to grow and thrive. Anna, who learned about GiGi’s while researching Down syndrome during her pregnancy, quickly became involved. Though stepping into the role of Board President felt daunting, she knew she was called to serve: “God does not call the equipped—He equips the called.”

For Whitney, her journey began the moment she saw her son Knox light up with joy at GiGi’s grand opening. “That moment made me realize how special this place is,” she said. “GiGi’s has a contagious spirit of love, community, and belonging, and I want to help it reach as many families as possible.”

Looking to the Future

Anna and Whitney share a common hope: that GiGi’s Playhouse will be a lifelong resource, not just for their children, but for all families who receive a Down syndrome diagnosis.

Anna reflected, “One of the coolest things is that no matter where we travel, if there’s a GiGi’s Playhouse, we feel that same sense of community. We’ve visited the Tampa and Portland locations, and it’s incredible to see how widespread this advocacy truly is.”

Whitney added, “My dream is that GiGi’s will continue to expand, touching the lives of every family blessed with a Down syndrome diagnosis. The world is a better place when people embrace the beauty of an extra 21st chromosome.”

Anna and Whitney, THANK YOU for showing that GiGi’s Playhouse is more than a place—it’s a movement to change the way the world views Down syndrome. We are so grateful to know you and your wonderful kiddos Izzy and Knox. Together, we can create a world where acceptance knows no bounds!