Happy (almost) Thanksgiving! We at DSAW are so grateful for each and every one of you. You make it possible for people with Down syndrome and other diverse abilities to access a lifetime of support through DSAW. Thank you.
You make it possible for families like Owen's to receive comfort, resources, and support in the moments following a Down syndrome diagnosis. Owen's parents Abby and Colin received their son's prenatal diagnosis in the middle of the pandemic. Abby recounts that a masked doctor, "standing as far away as possible started talking quickly through 'soft markers' and 'heightened concerns.' Big, multi-syllable words came after that [she] later found out meant a cyst in the brain, an enlarged right side of the heart, and possible chromosomal issues."
Because of the pandemic, Abby was alone when she received this diagnosis. She went home to Colin and remembers that "it was a really scary time and we were thrown off...we grieved the baby we had originally pictured then started reaching out for help and resources to understand our new life."
Abby and Colin reached out to DSAW's Parent's First Call program shortly after their diagnosis. They requested to be connected with a trained support parent to help them navigate their uncertainty, and Abby remembers the call distinctly. She asked a million questions, and because of that conversation, "the uncertainty left and [she] felt a lot lighter."
Now, Owen is thriving! "He is the happiest, most joyful, and content little human and his smile brightens an entire room." Abby says that her life is BETTER with him in it! You can follow along with their beautiful family journey on Instagram and Facebook: @abbyrosegreen
When you make a gift to DSAW on Giving Tuesday (11/30), you offer support to families in the moments following their diagnosis. You start their lifetime of support with hope and love. Will you give that gift of hope to a family this holiday season? You can even designate your donation to a specific DSAW chapter!
PS - Getting good deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? Consider donating your savings on Giving Tuesday!
