We saw an old friend today :)

[Emilysmom]

I've probably mentioned before that I met the mother of a 17 year old girl with Ds when I was pregnant with Emily, and she was SO helpful to me during that first year. We almost never see them, but I recently ran into the mother at a funeral. She told me that Rebecca is happy and busy and thoroughly loves NOT living at home, lol. When she turned 21, she told her mother that she wanted to move away like her brothers did. So, they started looking at group homes and found one right here in our community. Rebecca said it was just like her brothers living in a college dorm. She lived there for several years and was very happy.......met another young woman with Ds and eventually got an apartment together, with some assistance.

Our family ran into Rebecca and her room mate today at a restaurant and had the best time visiting with them. I thought it was cool that Emily is now exactly the same age as Rebecca was when we first met her! She seems very happy with her life. She works at our local library several days a week, and at a workshop several days a week.


One thing I remember about the first time we met Rebecca. Her mom brought her over to meet me and "the new baby", Emily. The minute they came to the door, Justin (then 3 years old) grabbed Rebecca's hand and said "Come to my room and read to me". My heart nearly stopped, and I thought to myself "oh no......she probably can't read". (Shows how little I knew about Ds at that time) But, she held his hand and went to Justin's room with him and read 3 or 4 books to him. It was SO good for me as a new mom! ! !

It was just very nice to see her today, because she offered us so much hope (and answers to our many questions) 17 years ago, and still today makes me smile when thinking about Emily's future.

Susan

[sd112170]

This is how I feel. The seasoned ladies here, I look up to. You inspire me, as a mom. I saw the art eariler, it was beautiful. It brings so much hope, and pride in my boy. I know the sky is the limit. I am so proud of all of the children and adults ( with and without DS ). I am proud to be a part of unomas!! It brings comfort to my long days.

[rickismom]

But there is still SO much of a need fotr us to get the "word" out that our kids CAN accomplish!

[elizabethsmom]

That must have been very heartwarming for you to run into her again. I'm glad you got the chance, then and now.
Sheryl

[ALLISA]

I love that story Susan ! That is so wonderful......

[Googsmom aka Jennifer]

That is wonderful Susan

[momofrussell]

That is AWESOME Susan! What a great moment.... little moments of affirmation....

Thanks for sharing!!

A.

[danikins]

Susan,
I pop in sporadically since Dani was born is 2002 and I must say you and Emily have always been an inspiration to me.

Thanks for sharing such a delightful and encouraging story.

Love it.

Kim
Mom to Dani who is now 6. [glow=red,2,300]I will love you forever and ever[/glow]

[advocate4myself]

What a great story. My Mom met a lady who had an adult daughter with Down syndrome when I was just a toddler. Her name was Virginia. She was such a wealth of information and support for my Mother. This was back in the sixties. I think she may have passed on by now, but, she was wonderful as a companion and inspiration for my Mom. Virginia's daughter lived with her for a very long time. Much later though she moved into a group home and really liked living there..........Debbie