Welcome home, Brielle!

“Brielle was born on June 1^st of this year. Her due date was August 9^th. Like her mother, patience just wasn’t one of her strengths, but make no mistake – this tyke is a fighter. Since she arrived 10 weeks early, Brielle presented a myriad of health complexities, including Down syndrome, a duodenal web restriction, and a congenital heart defect (atrioventricular septal defect). 

We all have attributes that make us unique, and at GiGi’s Playhouse, one of those attributes is celebrated: Down Syndrome. Increasing awareness about DS is on the rise, but still has a long journey ahead. People who are too dissimilar from us can trigger discomfort, uncertainty, or even fear. We had never encountered someone with DS before. I was uncertain and even afraid of people with special needs since they often appeared fragile and unpredictable. 

But now? After 164 days in the NICU, awaiting the day we could hold our sweet baby in our arms without wires and beeping machines…we finally have our first child home and are a family of three. Now there is no fear, just joy. Brielle is more like any other baby than different, and learning that was an important part of our journey. Uncertainty of the future exists for all of us, not just for those with Down syndrome. We will continue the fight for awareness and gather allies from far and wide.” -Arial

We are honored to be a pillar of support for this family every step of the way. At GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford, being part of their village is a privilege we never take lightly. Thank you to Brielle’s mom and dad, Arial and Gregg, for sharing these words with us. Welcome home, Brielle!