If you’d asked me 11 years ago whether I thought I’d be writing a blog post about Down’s Syndrome today, I would have, as shameful as this is to admit, told you not to be so daft. That is what happens to other families, not us, I would have confidently thought. Yet, here I am, writing this piece because on 24th September 2014, our life changed forever with the birth of our son, Albi.

My wife enjoyed a very normal pregnancy; we were in a fortunate position to be able to have not only the NHS scans but also grab that little bit of extra confidence by having a private and more detailed scan. Albi displayed no markers or signs whatsoever that he would be born with Down’s, so imagine our surprise when out he popped.

I will never forget that moment he was born. It was surreal and, as I first saw that little face, something in me deep down felt wrong. He behaved like any other new-born, but unlike with our first child when all the nurses huddled around guiding us, this time they all left the room almost immediately. “OK,” I thought, “that all went remarkably well; so well in fact they’ve left us to deal with other families more in need”. Around 20 minutes later a different nurse came in with a solemn look on her face. “We suspect that your son may have Down’s Syndrome, and we need to carry out some further checks.” Wham. There it was, our life-changing moment; in less than a split second, our lives were changed immeasurably, forever.

Human beings have a remarkable ability to cope with extreme situations; maybe flight or fight kicking in but suffice to say, those next days were intense with a rollercoaster of emotions, mostly freefalling downhill. We were lucky, Albi was a healthy young boy who displayed none of the health complications babies with Down’s can be associated with and we remain immensely grateful that he continues to be a healthy young boy today.

Those emotions and feelings we felt those first days and weeks, months even, I will leave for another day. This week is all about celebrating an awareness of Down’s Syndrome and to that end, I thought I’d provide just a few examples of the untold benefits Albi has brought to our life. It’s by no means all plain sailing and we have our difficult times; but it’s the good times and positive influences on our lives that we lodge in our memories, so let’s start with a few of those….

THE GLUE THAT BINDS US

Having a child with Down Syndrome will, more often than not, bring families closer together. The journey of raising a child with special needs fosters an environment of teamwork, patience, and as with any child, unconditional love. Many parents of children with disabilities or special educational needs say that their family relationships grow stronger as they rally around their child, finding joy in the milestones they reach and their accomplishments. Siblings often also develop a deep sense of empathy and responsibility, learning valuable life lessons that shape their character throughout their entire life.

Positive Influence on Peers

Children with Down Syndrome have a profound impact on their peers. Their presence in schools and social groups can foster inclusivity and understanding, something we surely all value in this current world so seemingly full of anger and intolerance. They teach their classmates the importance of kindness, of patience, and embracing differences. Many children who grow up with a friend who has Down Syndrome are shown to become more compassionate and accepting of diversity, carrying these values through their life into adulthood. Their influence extends beyond friendships, shaping a generation that values all individuals regardless of ability.

**Down’s Syndrome Does Not Define Someone**

A diagnosis of Down Syndrome is just one aspect of a person’s identity—it does not define who they are. Every child with Down Syndrome has their own personality, their own talents, and their own dreams. Where the right support and encouragement is provided, they can achieve remarkable things, from excelling in creative endeavours and sports to pursuing meaningful careers. It is so pleasing to see that today, individuals with Down Syndrome develop their own independence and make significant contributions to the communities in which they live, proving that they are much more than simply a genetic condition.

A Positive Influence on Society

I firmly believe that people with Down Syndrome can play a hugely important role in society by breaking down stereotypes and demonstrating the value of diversity. Their presence in workplaces and school’s challenges misconceptions and promotes inclusivity throughout society. I have seen many individuals with Down Syndrome participate in advocacy work, helping to shape policies in all walks of life that support people with disabilities. Their contributions inspire others in society to be more accepting, fostering a world where everyone is valued for who they are rather than what they can or cannot do.

It would be unfair of me not to acknowledge the obvious challenges that can and do come with having a child with Down Syndrome –as a family, we face those on a daily basis, like many other families will. But when all is said and done, this is a unique and rewarding experience that brings immeasurable love and joy. They have a way of bringing people together, teaching important life lessons, and challenging societal norms. If we can embrace the positives, and not only dwell on the negatives, families and communities will see the incredible value and potential of every individual with Down Syndrome, making the world a more compassionate and inclusive place.

Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week: Why it’s Special to us!

THE GLUE THAT BINDS US

Positive Influence on Peers

Down’s Syndrome Does Not Define Someone

A Positive Influence on Society

Tom Newey, CEO.

Odd Socks