How a child with DS improves your life ......

I saw this on another forum, I have her permission to share it with you.

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Down
syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by a triplication of the
genetic material on the 21st chromosome. This trisomy occurs with the
first division of the developing zygote, as a result there is extra
genetic material present in every cell of the individual. Recently,
science has discovered that this cellular abnormality is highly
contagious. As result, family members (and even friends) of individuals
with Down syndrome often find themselves exhibiting dramatic changes
due to this "something extra" permeating their bodies at the cellular
level. These changes manifest themselves in a number of ways. Something
extra in the visual cortex results in parents who view the world
differently. In addition to seeing things in an entirely new light,
these parents also report having an increased ability to focus on what
is important. Spontaneous appearance of tears of joy have also been
confirmed. The section of the brain used in logical thought undergoes
dramatic changes.

Parents suddenly find themselves able to
comprehend and discuss complex medical procedures. The ability to
decipher long strings of acronyms appears almost immediately and it is
not uncommon for affected parents of newborns to be able to
differentiate between ASD, VSD and PDA. Familiarity with G-tubes, Pic
lines and the NICU is another side effect.

Over time, the entire
nervous system is transformed, enabling parents to perform tasks
previously thought impossible. These changes result in individuals
finding the nerve to advocate before large crowds, speak to classrooms
of medical students and educate the population at large about issues
they are passionate about. These changes are closely tied in to
dysfunctions in the verbal abilities, which makes it virtually
impossible for parents to bite their tongue. Often, individuals who
previously considered themselves reserved will find themselves
outspoken and effective communicators.

The pulmonary system is
altered to a dramatic extent. Parents report having their breath taken
away at the slightest prompting. The cardiovascular system develops
similar vulnerabilities and reports of hearts pounding loudly and
swelling unexpectedly are not uncommon. One mother reported that her
heart skipped a beat when her son smiled at her for the first time. The
extremities are also altered. Arms reach out to strangers for support,
and in turn, hands comfort and nurture those in need. Legs strengthen
and balance improves, allowing parents to stand firm in their
convictions and walk without faltering, even when shouldering a heavy
load. Scientists are baffled by the widespread scope of these symptoms.
Equally perplexing is the response of those afflicted. Parents readily
acknowledge fundamental changes in their being, however, almost
universally declare a preference for their new, altered level of
functioning. "I wouldn't change a thing" is a common refrain.
Apparently, the presence of a little "something extra" enhances the
lives of individuals fortunate enough to be infected.

That's very good! I enjoyed reading it.

Love it very true

That's great Tigger That's what we need on a t-shirt lol.... I want people to be jealous of me not pity me hehehe

Cas

Thats fantastic Tigger.

And I love the idea of that being on the shirts. Thats what statement I want people to know as well. I'm all for that!