Down Syndrome Awareness Month

As we close out October, we also come to the end of Down Syndrome Awareness Month. This month can be complicated for many. Especially those that are down in the weeds dealing with health issues, behavior issues, and all of the other stuff.

Why should we celebrate Down syndrome? Well, first, we celebrate because anyone who knows anyone with Down syndrome knows that people with Down syndrome are awesome. Yes, despite their difficulties these individuals are really awesome. But more importantly, we view this month as an opportunity to share information about Down syndrome. The challenges our loved ones face AND all of the things they are capable of doing. By educating others, we create an understanding of their differences. This understanding creates acceptance.

This picture captures the WHY of creating understanding. This is my son at his high school homecoming game, where he was included by his peers and was able to participate to the best of his ability. It represents hours of work from teachers, other parents, our family, and our community to create this inclusion. I also credit the programs he has attended at GiGi’s Playhouse for giving him the confidence, social skills, and communication skills necessary to fit in with his peers at this level. I am thrilled that his typical peers have also had enough exposure to him that they have developed an understanding of what individuals with Down syndrome can bring to their own lives. It isn’t always easy and not every story is so positive but this one is a win. This picture represents how developing an understanding can create acceptance and help change the way the world views Down syndrome.

Get involved at GiGi’s by attending a program, volunteering or assisting on a committee!  Learn more about us through our calendar: https://gigisplayhouse.org/milwaukee/sfcalendar/ Or become a volunteer today! https://gigisplayhouse.org/milwaukee/volunteer/