My youngest child, and only son, is 35 years old and he was born with Down Syndrome.
After his birth, the neonatologist came in my hospital room and sat down and explained to me that he had Trisomy 21, Down Syndrome. I was devastated.
Am I Strong Enough?
I knew that he needed a strong mama to make sure he had all he needed throughout his lifetime. I feared I was not strong enough to be that mama, but I had no choice. He needed me and I couldn’t let him down. As his mother, I experience first-hand the life changes that impact the family of a child with special needs.
Special Education
When my son started attending public school at the age of 3, I began volunteering in his class. I discovered my calling, to work in the field of special education. I worked as a para-educator for about 12 years while also attending college. After 18 years, taking one class at a time for the most part, I graduated Summa Cum Laude with my Master of Science degree in Special Education.
My Purpose
On the day my son was born, I was terrified … But with his birth, my life changed for the better. He gave me direction and a purpose.
My son is an amazing human being and an example of unconditional love and pure joy. He touches the hearts and souls of all he meets. Our world is a better place because he is in it. I am blessed to be his mama.
