Day #14 Public schools must, by law, provide a free and appropriate education for individuals with Down syndrome. Willow goes to preschool just like other kids her age. Some of her classmates have special needs. Most don’t. Every child brings something different to the classroom. Every child benefits. Inclusive classrooms are a beautiful thing. Willow learns … More Day 14 – Down Syndrome Awareness Month
My daughter, Willow, was born to change the world. Sadly, I often get in the way. I see her struggle, get left behind or worse, made fun of, and I rush to save her. Willow has Down syndrome, and sometimes I forget she doesn’t need saving. She needs support. My support. As a mother, I … More Fading Into The Background So My Daughter Can Shine
“Bye, Willow!” It’s something I’ve heard probably a thousand times. But this time, it was different. This time the words were felt, not just heard. They came from a little boy on Willow’s first day of preschool. That was a hard day for me. From my perspective, I had just put my small, fragile, beautiful … More The power of a goodbye
She didn’t even say “bye bye.” No kiss. No hug. No tears. Well, at least on her end. It’s Willow’s first day of school. I’ve dreamed of this day, wondered what it would be like. Now, it’s here. I left her in her classroom, playing. She was so busy cooking on her fake stove that she … More My Empty Nest
