A Club

Last fall I joined a local group for mothers of children with Down syndrome.  I have loved getting to know these mothers and feel an instant connection to them because our children share the designer gene-T21.  We have monthly play groups which usually take place while Cole and Sadie are at school.  

I haven't told my kids that Frankie has Down syndrome.  I didn't want them to worry or put a label on him.  I just wanted my children to know him and love him first.  I didn't want them to be afraid of Down syndrome.  I wanted them to experience it first and learn the joy of loving someone with Down syndrome.  As questions arise, I answer them honestly.  They have been so accepting of Frankie as he is.  Even with his "stuck together" fingers.  

Not knowing I was creating my own label for Frankie,  Cole asked me one day why Frankie was needing Physical Therapy.  I explained that since Frankie is a little bit special, he will be a little weak and slower at some things and PT will help him become stronger.  Well, "little bit special" seemed to stick with Cole and that's what he refers to Frankie as.  

During Spring Break I was able to take all my kids to the play group.  I was curious to see how they would interact.  Beforehand I explained to them that this is a play group for Frankie and his friends. 

Cole says, "Oh, you mean a little-bit-special kids like Frankie?"

Yes Cole. :)

We went to the play group and the kids had a great time playing with the other siblings who were also off for spring break.  After we left, Cole asked me if we would be able to see those friends again.  I was so happy they had a good time.  I told him, "Aren't we lucky Cole to have those friends?  If it weren't for Frankie I would never have met these nice Moms and their children.  How lucky are we to be apart of this fun group?"    

Cole thought for a moment and then said...

"Like a club, right mom?"

That's exactly right Cole!  How did you know?

I have felt part of a club since the very first play group I went to

"We often think that having a child with Down syndrome is like gaining membership to a secret club, a club you never knew you wanted to be in or even existed, but once you are in, you are so thankful that you were chosen."
Nicole Maher 

I'm so grateful that I get to experience this kind of joy and love.  

*****

Here is a play date I had at my home with Henry, who also has Down Syndrome and is 4 weeks younger than Frankie.

Henry lives just a few blocks away.  

He is such a happy and smiley baby!

So cute!

Henry also had Syndactyly like Frankie but on all fingers.  He has already had his surgeries on his hands and is doing well.  I'm so grateful to have made this connection with Henry and his Mom!    

Meeting smiley Henry made me realize that Frankie's seriousness is just his personality.  Cole was just the same.  We would have to do head stands to get him to crack.  He was as serious as a judge.

Friends.