Receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome was the last thing I expected on my journey through parenthood, yet, that is exactly the diagnosis we received when Henry was born. I was scared and heartbroken because I thought I knew what that meant. Truth is, I was the one who was in the dark.

I fell in love with Henry the first moment I held him, and he continues to surprise and inspire me daily.

As I began to educate myself on what Down syndrome really is, I found out there is so much “information” that is outdated and depressing and wrong, and I hope that by sharing our experience with Henry, we will give a glimpse of what Down syndrome truly is. I fell in love with Henry the first moment I held him, and he continues to surprise and inspire me daily. Henry is a big brother and a little brother, he has cousins who love him and grandparents who adore him. Henry attends school at The Little Lighthouse and at 5 years old, he has accomplished so much!

At the end of the day, Down syndrome is just a diagnosis, it is a part of who Henry is, but does not define him. He is smart and beautiful, funny and ornery, loving and stubborn, sweet and independent. He is many things, just as we all are. He is a gift, a blessing I didn’t know to ask for, but grateful our family received.