Stories of Wil: Word, Sister!
Wil is a 13-year-old boy with Down syndrome. He is the little brother, by 20 months, to twin sisters, Katherine and Elizabeth. Wil’s mom, Christie, knew very little about Down syndrome when Wil was diagnosed shortly after his birth. It didn’t take long for Christie to realize how enriching life with Down syndrome is. Embracing this newfound life, Christie was compelled to share her experiences with Wil. Christie’s desire, in sharing these stories, is to promote an awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the amazing capabilities of individuals with Down syndrome.
submitted by Christie Taylor
The word “retard” was said on a television show Elizabeth and I were watching. We both reflexively flinched.
“Why did they even say that?” Elizabeth asked.
“It wasn’t needed at all.”
Word, sister! Can you imagine having to prove the value of your child? The mere fact your child was born with one tiny extra chromosome leaves you in that position. To show the world he is not “less than” when every stereotype suggests otherwise. My son is not the subject of a joke on TV. The defenses of your child’s value go up even before he’s born.
If a diagnosis of Down syndrome is given during prenatal testing, many will share words of sympathy with you rather than congratulations. Isn’t the fact that he is a human being born into this life miracle enough? But sadly, it’s not enough. So when hurtful comments like those on a television show occur, I am reminded not to let my guard down. That even though my immediate community of Manchester is supportive of Wil and who he is as an individual, there is much work to be done outside of our community.
Should I be expected to prove my son’s value to you? Should I be expected to prove my son’s value to television show writers who carelessly degrade him with words projected to the masses? Should I be expected to prove my son’s value to new moms; to women who are about to give birth and know very little about Down syndrome? Should I be expected to prove my son’s value to those who utter words of sympathy when we deserve their words of congratulations instead?
The very fact these questions exist is proof of the need to share our stories. Sharing stories about our loved ones with Down syndrome is not optional; it is integral. Sharing stories opens the gateways of understanding, which in turn deflate the meaning of ignorant jokes. Sharing stories creates personal connections and eliminates the fear of the unknown. Sharing stories opens minds to a beautiful life that counts beyond the number of chromosomes. Sharing stories is the answer to questions we should never be expected to ask in the first place.
Elizabeth was right—hurtful words are never needed. But our stories are essential.
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