Wil and I went to pick up pizza in town. As we exited the pizzeria, we saw Will D., Wil’s friend from school. We enjoyed a quick chat, then as Wil and I headed back to our car, Wil turned around and called out to Will D., “See you tomorrow!” I’ve never heard my Wil … Continue reading A Moment in Time: Surprise gifts
Growing Together
Families and friends gathered for the annual Down Syndrome Support Team Buddy Walk the last Sunday of September. It is traditionally held on that date— though here and there over the years the Buddy Walk has jumped up or back a week. The Buddy Walk takes place on a one mile loop in Gallup Park, … Continue reading Growing Together
It’s What Friends Do
Wil’s closest friends are five girls from school; all typically-developing. In our tight-knit community, I hear over and again how special Wil’s friends are. And it’s true. They are. My gratitude is high because I know in another tight-knit community – the community of parents who have children with Down syndrome -- Wil’s friendship circle … Continue reading It’s What Friends Do
Just Friends Being Friends
“I was just wondering if Wil wanted to be part of the 7 dwarfs. We were thinking he could be Snuggly, Giggly, Silly, or Smiley! Considering Wil has all those traits!” I received this text from Ashley about Halloween costumes. Ashley and Wil, now in 8th grade, have gone to school together and been friends … Continue reading Just Friends Being Friends
Our Own Little Buddy Walk
The DSST Buddy Walk was virtual this year, but thanks to Wil’s amazing friends and this caring community, we had our own fun walk of about 30 people (and dogs!) in Manchester. Our local Steelegrafix LLC made our shirts this year and not only donated a portion of the proceeds to DSST, but also matched … Continue reading Our Own Little Buddy Walk
Champs of the Day
Two weeks ago, I shared a story with you about our tubing adventure on Lake Lansing with friends Cheri, Randy and their son, CJ. Thanks to Cheri’s patience, Wil overcame his fears and very tentatively got on the tube with her. With much coaxing, Cheri convinced Wil to go for a very slow ride. Wil’s … Continue reading Champs of the Day
Opening the View
I'm embarrassed of things I said before Wil was born. I was ignorant. I just didn't know. Now, when I hear or read certain words, I cringe immediately. My kids cringe immediately. We know better, thank God. When words hurt, our primitive drive is to react with a fight. Eliminate that word! It is evil. … Continue reading Opening the View
Wil’s Growing Independence
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about Wil as a young adult. Will he live with Matt and myself? Will he live independently with help? Will he have his own apartment with a friend? Wil is a very social person; he loves to swim, golf and hang out with friends. I know he’ll want to … Continue reading Wil’s Growing Independence
In Sync
As Wil has gotten older, it’s clear he needs closer friends with Down syndrome. He has wonderful friends at school that love and support him fully. As the gap in abilities with his typical peers grows and social lives expand, Wil also needs to cultivate friendships with those whose abilities match his. Manny’s family lives … Continue reading In Sync
Its Not Real…Until It Is
I would say this situation is hardest on Wil. He doesn’t understand as much as I’ve explained it. I’ve heard the response, “I don’t understand, either,” which I respect and appreciate. But Wil doesn’t understand what a virus is. We do know what a virus is, even not knowing all the details of this particular … Continue reading Its Not Real…Until It Is