DSARCW - What is Down Syndrome
Our Kids
Hi Everyone! My name is Maryann. I am the Secretary of the DSARCW. My first born, darling daughter, Malena, was born in December of 2003. Because she was a triplet, I had many, many ultrasounds, however, it wasn’t until she was born that we discovered she had Down Syndrome. I think my experience of learning Malena had Down Syndrome was unique. With a risky pregnancy, there are many worries and thoughts of what could happen. So I guess I was preparing myself for something. I was not prepared for Down Syndrome. We were heartbroken to learn of it, but did not feel the devastation I’ve heard many feel. My reaction was, “Oh, Okay.” Then it was a sort of race to tell me what I felt I needed to know. The doctors were no help what so ever. All they could tell me was some do well, some don’t. “We don’t know.” Then they “found” a person who worked in the hospital who had a relative with Down Syndrome. Though very kind, she was not much help with the uncertainty I was feeling and my quest for someone to give me answers about my daughter’s future. With family support, my husband and I set out to find what would help our precious little princess. That’s when we found the support group. By being an active member of the group, I’ve learned of therapies (many which I can do myself at home), programs, and just love that will help Malena thrive. And she is thriving, everyday. Every day when I think I’m teaching her, she really teaches me that Down syndrome does not define who she is and that I should never underestimate what she can accomplish. She is an amazing little girl and I can’t wait to see what the future will bring for her.
These are recent pictures that Maryann took of me, Lindsey, and Sam at the park.
She does take pictures professionally in her spare time, when she can get away from the triplets, with a studio and everything! Email her for more info. ma91761@yahoo.com
Together A Brighter Future