Trisha’s Why this Giving Hearts Day

Prior to my daughter being born, I knew no one with Down syndrome. Sure – I saw “them” at random functions and passed “them” in stores, but that was all.
Then Claire was born. Our worlds were turned upside down and it took quite some time to truly accept her diagnosis. And once we did…our lives changed for the better. Not only because her smile lights up a room, and her cuddles can make even the saddest days feel incredible, but because the people around her changed. Tolerance grew. Acceptance grew. We welcomed questions and shouted her worth everywhere we went.

GiGi’s Playhouse in Fargo was a huge part of this. Of course, my friends and family were supportive and inclusive. But when we entered the doors of the Playhouse for the first time and didn’t have to explain why she wasn’t talking at 3 years old – I knew. I knew we belonged. We had found another home.
We have lived in Fargo for 5.5 years now and my relationship with GiGi’s has grown. Watching new volunteers enter our doors and supporting those with Down syndrome is so humbling. They could volunteer anywhere and they *chose* us. They chose to be here. And it’s because our loved ones with Down syndrome change lives every day.

I’m grateful for every day with Claire. And I’m forever grateful to GiGi’s Playhouse for giving our community the opportunity to view the ones we love with a deep sense of acceptance.

Your investment this Giving Hearts Day supports FREE programs at GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo for individuals with Down syndrome and their families! Support GiGi’s February 9, 2023 –> https://app.givingheartsday.org/#/charity/68

You Belong Here,

Trisha Stibbe, Claire’s mom, Advocate, and GiGi’s Board of Managers