Down Syndrome Fact Friday – Is it Hard?

Three times last week I was asked if my life was hard because I have a child with Down Syndrome.

In all honesty, no, my life is not harder. Do I say that because I an trying to paint a pretty picture? No. I say it because it is very true. My life is not harder than it was when DJ was a toddler. My life is no harder than it would be if Cody was a “typical” developing child.

In many ways, my life is so much easier with Cody. I view things with different eyes than I did before him and although I still need to really learn to slow down, I can appreciate every achievement he and DJ make – no matter how small.

We rushed through all the milestones with DJ (he walked at 8.5 months and from there he grew up too fast!), but with Cody, he has taught us to slow down, recognize and celebrate all the milestones.

Is the process of therapies, school, etc a little overwhelming? It used to be, but it never bothered me. The only reason it was overwhelming was because our schedule as a family was overwhelming. Between school for both boys, therapies for Cody and sports for DJ, I spent a lot of time in the car.

I can honestly say that there was never a point in which I stressed about it, cried over it or wished it would all just go away.

The oddity of it is, my nature is to stress. When it comes to Cody, however, the need to stress is lifted. Maybe it is because when I see him I do not see his disability. When I see him, I see Cody. There are many times I look at him and wonder if he really has Down Syndrome. Genetics tell me so, but his progress and personality tell me otherwise. He is a normal child in many ways and though his speech may be delayed, not much else is.

So for those that wonder if my life is harder for having a child with Down Syndrome or feel sorry for me because Cody has Down Syndrome, don’t worry – my life is GREAT!!! =) I don’t feel sorry for myself or my family so you shouldn’t either!!! ;)