Down Syndrome Awareness...Why We Want To Adopt

Since this is national Downs Syndrome Awareness Month, I thought I'd share why we would sincerely consider a Down Syndrome child or some other special needs children. Tony actually had a cousin who had a mental disability caused from spinal meningitis when she was 2 years old. It affected her brain in that she never grew 'older' than an 8 year old, and her love and affection totally surpassed anything we could comprehend. Her disability made her special and when I met her I thought she was the most precious person I had ever met.

With that awareness came the ability to see others with disabilities for who they are and not what their disability made them. It made me realize that they are no different than we are except that they have the ability to see others as they are. She was a gift from God that was given to Tony's aunt and that became clear when his aunts' husband died unexpectedly in his 40's. Aunt Beverly had a purpose everyday and that didn't allow her to spend time sulking and feeling sorry for herself. She had to take care of Debbie everyday, and Debbie was there to comfort Bev, and comfort her she did.

She was there to comfort Tony. his sister, his dad and me when Tonys' mom died. She just kept hugging everyone and making sure that no one was crying. The most precious gift in our time of grief was Debbie and she was appreciated more than I can say. We love her, and she is the biggest reason that we have for wanting to adopt a DS child or special needs child. We saw the love that she showered on everyone and Tony watched her blossom from baby to young woman and saw how productive she came regardless of her disability. The children that are discarded in other countries, and yes as well as here, deserve the love, care and attention that Debbie received. And with the love of a family, they can become productive citizens in their communities, and bring such joy to the family that chooses to bring them home.

I'm going to bake now, and dream of someday, being able to bake with our new family members, our twins! :)