On March 8th, 2018, after what seemed like an eternity my beautiful daughter was born with her rosy cheeks and huge blue eyes, she was perfect, and I was so happy and excited to welcome our first child into the world. Oblivious to all else in the world except joy, I didn’t notice the concern emanating from the medical staff. The doctor began to explain that she had something called Down syndrome. That night we got permission to go and see our daughter, to us she looked like any other baby, she was then, and always will be, the most beautiful flower and our hearts overflowed with love for her. In the beginning it was not easy, and it was 2 weeks until my wife fully knew about our baby condition, for both of us that was the beginning of a journey to understand what Down syndrome is and what it means for our family.

​

It has been transformational for all of us. We decided to give up our jobs, so that we could travel back to our home country with the support of our families. Although it was a surprise for us to learn that our baby had DS, she has been an amazing blessing to us and filled our lives with so much joy and love. The path of learning has only just begun for us however, as we struggle to discover the implications of life with DS and how to support our child’s development. As parents we are committed to finding ways to help her succeed in life, become independent and integrate into society along with her peers. She had brought untold joy to our lives and now it is our mission to make her life filled with love and joy. Whenever I feel sad or worry just a glance at her makes me smile. She is active with a smiley face always that make you laugh and provide a good feeling to whomever who touch her or even see her.