‎31 for 21 -- Don't be sorry... -- Day #15

Scenario:

Your dear college friend just had a baby with Down syndrome.

Response (pick one):

A. Wow, I'm glad it's you and not me... God only gives people what they can handle.

B. Congratulations on the birth of your baby. I don't know much about Down syndrome, but I want you to know I'm here for you and would love to know more when you're ready. Is there anything I can do for you? Bring a meal?

C. I'm so sorry. What a tragedy. Didn't you have the [prenatal] test?

D. Your baby doesn't look like he has Down syndrome. Maybe it's just a "mild" form.

Correct answer: (It should be obvious... B, or some version of that) A baby is a baby is a baby is a baby... no matter what! That mom just spent the last 9 (or so) months with that baby and the birth of a baby is to be celebrated first and foremost. Help your friend, as you would any friend, and be supportive. Be a comfort to her and offer to bring a meal or watch the baby while she rests. 

31 for 21 -- Response to a question (Day #2)

Fish heads fish heads, Roly poly fish heads, Fish heads fish heads, Eat them up yum! Where does the head go?

Ta da... wait, something's not quite right...

That's better.
(photos taken at the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito, CA)

This boy seriously LOVES train sets!

I'm posting here and on facebook my daily 31 for 21 posts;, that is, 31 days throughout October, which is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, posting about Trisomy 21 (T21), aka Down syndrome.

Here's my response to Gretchen's question (she responded to the previous post...):

Gretchen: Awesome. Can't wait to read! I'll start with a question. What is one of the most challenging things raising john michael so far in terms of his development? Id like to know his skills and then one thing you find difficult.

Monica: Thanks for asking... Raising JM (as w/ any kid) has its rewards (more of these) and challenges... It changes as he ages... I used to be challenged by his lack of verbal communication and now he is a chatter box and talks all the time (although still in 2 and 3 word sentences, but we're working on it). Currently, it's behavior. He bolts any chance he can... it's very hard to take him and Luke anywhere unless they're strapped down in a stroller. JM will find an opening and escape. I guess he loves the adventure and freedom and lacks that sense of danger. He also will bonk his little brother or Greta in the head with a toy if he's higher than them (he's standing, they're sitting...) Poor Luke! He's also the most stubborn individual I"ve ever met, but I'm the parent and my will is stronger and we'll get through it. So, yes, challenges... but not unlike some other kids. He does have pretty good attention span and can play with Legos or at the train table or outside play kitchen for a long time. He's also very good at school according to his teachers. Developmentally, I wish he could express his deepest feelings to me... I find that the most heartbreaking right now. Skill-wise, he's jumping with both feet a couple inches (yay!) and can do wooden puzzles with pictures with ease. He recognizes basic colors and shapes and is working on letters. He eats with utensils, has good manners, says prayers (usually) and brings each family a rosary on Sunday nights. He pushes his chair in and cleans his plate into the garbage. Tries to make his bed (does pretty well...) and he loves to teach Luke new things.