Best of All – Lucy!
We had the great joy of meeting Lucy when she was only a couple of months old. Lucy and her mom, Megan, entered the Playhouse and from that moment there was no turning back. Alongside her big brother, Tommy, you can find Lucy and her family attending so many programs. From LMNOP, Music and Movement, Leaps & Bounds, and so much more – Lucy gives her Best of All in all she does and we have loved watching this sweet girl grow and grow and grow! We invited Megan to share more about Lucy and their story!
What brought you to GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland?
Well, obviously, Lucy brought us here. When we first walked around Lakewood three years ago, I remember seeing GiGi’s and thought nothing of it. I never thought three years later I would be sitting in a hospital room remembering it, and becoming eager to check it out.
Tell us about Lucy’s diagnosis!
After Lucy was born, we had about 90 minutes of what we call “pure bliss”. We didn’t know she was going to be a girl, and I imagined all of the mother-daughter experiences that we would have together. Then the pediatrician came in and told us about her diagnosis. At that moment, I thought everything was ripped away from me, and nothing would ever be the same. I wondered what her life would look like, and all I would do was cry and tell her how sorry I was for her. Little did I know the future and the joy Lucy would bring to our family. She is our angel baby. I still worry about the future and the obstacles she will face. However, meeting so many different families, and reading more and more real stories of children, teenagers, and adults with Down syndrome; I am very much comforted by the fact that nothing is going to stop her.
What programs is Lucy involved in at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland?
LMNOP, Leaps & Bounds, Destination Discovery, and Music and Movement
What types of activities/hobbies/foods/ etc. does your loved one enjoy?
Lucy loves books, swinging, and playing with her brother Tommy.
What has been your favorite moment at GiGi’s Playhouse?
It’s funny because it’s not about Lucy. We were at LMNOP and a little girl with Down syndrome was giving everyone hugs. She came up and gave me the biggest hug. I almost cried because I thought if this was what Lucy’s future was going to be having Down syndrome, it’s not that bad.
What would you like people to know about your loved one, and how can that change the community around us?
One word: joy. You can have the worst day in your life and as soon as she looks at you and smiles, it’s an instant reminder that life isn’t that bad, be happy.
How has Lucy grown while attending programs at GiGi’s?
You can see her growth within the Music and Movement program. Practicing sitting to standing with her used to be like a baby giraffe walking but soon she was able to sit up with only using one hand for support.
What has your loved one taught you? What gifts have they brought into this world?
Patience, kindness, love, charity.
How has GiGi’s supported your entire family?
Have you met Tommy? He put it best when he said, “Ms. Mary wants me to be there!”
What is your favorite part about being Lucy’s mom?
Being her number one cheerleader. Being proud of her for every little accomplishment. It’s an honor to be chosen as her mom and take on the responsibility of her and her needs.
What is one hope for your loved one?
That the world sees her as Lucy and not a girl with Down syndrome. That she feels she can be anything she wants and that nothing can hold her back.
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