Encouraging others to expand their vocabulary
One of the first things I noticed upon becoming a parent of a child with a disability is that a word I’d hardly noticed in my childless life was now suddenly everywhere.
From NW to DC: Advocacy on the national level
In February, NWDSA Board of Directors had the opportunity to travel to Washington, DC for a conference that brought together parents and advocates from Down syndrome groups across the country.
Happy Birthday to Eleanor
A pediatrician we had never seen before said, “Your daughter has an extra chromosome. It’s called Down syndrome and if you’re interested there is some literature you can read before you leave the hospital.”
A message from Tony Starlight, an entertainer unlike any other
When I was introduced to Daniel, son of NWDSA board members Steve Holland and Angela Jarvis-Holland, I wasn't sure how to interact with him, because after all, he had Down syndrome.
The Down Syndrome Community Celebrates an Important Victory
Congress Passes the Kennedy-Brownback Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act
Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers Statement for the Record on Prenatally and Postnatally Diagnosed Conditions Awareness Act
I believe this bill is a positive step forward in helping new and expecting parents of children with special needs get accurate information on the real potential of their children.
Celebrities Participate in a National Public Service Announcement for the National Down Syndrome Society
Meredith Vieira, Actor John C. McGinley, Baseball Star Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals, Access Hollywood Co-Host Nancy O’Dell, Self-Advocate and former Actor from the past TV series Life Goes On Chris Burke, as well as other self-advocates will participate in a public service announcement, highlighting October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month
Life is Full of Surprises
When I was thirteen, my mother signed me up to be a junior counselor at Camp Ky-O-Wa—the only local inclusive day camp, welcoming all children, regardless of their level of ability.
Photo Gallery Tour 2008: Expanding Our Community
The All Born (In) photo gallery has had quite a tour around the area since the January debut at OHSU.
Sometimes it is necessary to travel far from home to realize the riches that lie on your own doorstep
The Board of Directors of NWDSA traveled to Washington, DC for a four-day conference with other Down syndrome parent groups from across the country.
Change it Anyway (Poem)
Changing systems can be frustrating, confusing
and time consuming;
Strive to change them anyway.
Taking our Message to Washington
On August 18th, five NWDSA representatives joined U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Eastern Washington for a conversation on prenatal testing.
Recognizing a Local Trailblazer
Thirty-three years ago, the world was a very different place for parents of babies with Down syndrome. The only infant services readily available were drop-off respite programs, designed to give moms a break.
Eleanor helps herself
I am eleven years old and in fourth grade. This year some little girls came to my school. I heard some people say that they had Down syndrome. On a Saturday I asked my Mom, “Do I have Down syndrome?”
The Power of Partnership: Perspectives of a PSU Professor of Special Education
On April 26th I had the opportunity to be a part of the 3rd annual All Born (In) conference. It was a wonderful day, a day on which I learned much, taught a little, and met many amazing people.
Welcome Makena
I was a wreck the first weeks after our daughter, Makena, was diagnosed prenatally with Down syndrome.
A Brother’s Perspective
I remember when she first came to the house, I loved her, she was so cute and kissable.