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<\/a><\/h1>\nWelcome to the world, Jack!<\/h1>\n
While at the hospital, we met a nurse who had a brother with Down syndrome and the social worker, who both referred us to GiGi\u2019s.\u00a0 After getting our feet settled as new parents, we decided it was time to reach out.\u00a0 We initially met with two other parents and their children.\u00a0 It was a fabulous feeling to be so welcomed into a community and to learn what resources are available to us.\u00a0 In fact, we felt lucky<\/strong> since new parents aren’t given a handbook, but essentially we did have one because of the support these families gave and the resources\/information available to us through them and GiGi’s.<\/p>\n While all parents work hard to provide for their child and watch them succeed in life, the efforts we put in can look a bit different.\u00a0 We spend significant time at doctors offices and with experts in genetics, disabilities, heart, ear\/nose\/throat, kidneys, orthopedics, thyroid, oncologists, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, music therapy, and developmental therapy. We fight with our insurance company to get medical visits, tests, evaluations, and therapy visits covered, we research everything from what toys have therapeutic benefits to what options he has for his future. We may even consider moving to another state or job just for better benefits.\u00a0 The list of what we must do to ensure our child’s success could go on and on.\u00a0 Having the support of other families and an organization with a network of resources helps make the process seem less “different” and provides essential resources to make it easier to navigate.<\/p>\n The purposeful programming<\/strong> at GiGi\u2019s is offered at no cost to participants with Down syndrome, parents and loved ones. We started attending LMNOP, a program intended for ages 0-3 focusing on speech, music, and sign language.\u00a0 Additionally, we attended music therapy and one-on-one speech therapy this summer.\u00a0 Jack, who is not yet two, is now signing multiple signs himself and understands a great deal more!\u00a0 His language skills and social skills are huge milestones that would not be where they are without this programming.\u00a0 As Jack grows, the programming grows with him.\u00a0 There are groups for all ages, even through adulthood!\u00a0 Fantastic Friends on Friday nights is a great opportunity for the teens and adults, and having attended a few times, it has provided me a greater sense of expectations for my own child.<\/p>\n Without GiGi\u2019s programming, we would not have the support network of other families with persons with Down syndrome and we would be paying much more out of pocket for therapy to meet the same goals we meet there.\u00a0 For families that are already incurring additional medical costs due to the number of other related medical conditions that occur with Down syndrome, having a resource that is free in our community is incredibly valuable.<\/p>\n While the programming is free to individuals and families, it is not free for the Playhouse to offer these opportunities.\u00a0 The only way they can continue offering the community all the amazing opportunities they do is through donations, fundraisers, and grants.<\/p>\n To anyone with a potential diagnosis or a loved one with Down syndrome:<\/strong> Come check it out!\u00a0 Come meet the families and individuals with Down syndrome.\u00a0 Come learn why a diagnosis of Down syndrome is not scary and meet some amazing individuals.<\/p>\n To the community:<\/strong> Come check it out!\u00a0 Meet some awesome people in your community.\u00a0 I guarantee you will walk away inspired! You can also volunteer to help with any age, event or provide sponsorship to this non-profit.<\/p>\n