Our Son Marlow Has Down Syndrome, What Can We Do?

I have a son of 17 years old. Marlow was born with Down's Syndrome (DS). Before the birth our son, the doctors tried to convince us to abort, but my wife and I were so set against it they finally gave up. Afterward one doctor actually implied in her comments that we , Marlow's parents, were unable to accept Marlow's condition. She, in essence, was implying that we were deluding ourselves about his ability to learn. I am sure glad we didn't let people of narrow understanding discourage us from wanting the best for our son. My wife and I have worked long and hard to change the opinions of others, in regard to how they treat a person with our son's disability.

We love Marlow very much and we see, in him, great potential. Most people, especially educators, have a hard time seeing past his "different" behavior to see his potential. For this reason, my wife and I have taken much of the responsibility, for the most part, for his education upon ourselves. When educators care to admit it, they are amazed at how advanced his education is for a child with DS. My wife has had opportunities to work with "Special Ed" students in the school systems as a Substitute Teacher and has been able to accomplish things that have amazed other educators. My wife attributes this to the higher expectations she places on her students and herself. In my, not so humble opinion, the very teachers that should be trying to change the tide of public opinion regarding the students under their care are adding to the infection of the festering intolerance experienced by our dear children and their families.

Parents of children with DS take note: Never add to your child's disability by underestimating his/her abilities. Your child may very well amaze you as mine has me. Remember, your son or daughter is first a child and second an individual with educational challenges. Keep your child in the typical classroom as much as you can. If done properly, it can be a beneficial experience for ALL the students in your child's classrooms. Excluding your child from the learning and social activities of others hurts your child's education as well as society.

Let's change the opinions of those who believe your child is of no worth. For those whose faith will allow them to believe... I know God sees the great worth of every child. After all, in our heart-of-hearts don't we believe that less-abled children are some of His most beloved.