Down Syndrome - @gettingdownwithjoey

"This is Joey. He’s 3.5 years old. When Joey was 9 days old, we were given some unexpected news - Joey has Down syndrome. When I was pregnant all I wished for was a healthy baby. So obviously our biggest concern was Joey’s health. Approximately half of all infants born with Down syndrome have a heart defect. Joey has a form of tricuspid valve disorder. Thankfully, everything is functioning properly and there’s been no need for surgery. He also had to be on supplemental oxygen and a monitor for mild obstructive sleep apnea, as well as medication for hypothyroidism. However, although he still needs to be monitored by his doctors, he's currently on absolutely NOTHING! I can't explain in words how it felt to see him come off of everything. We were simply overcome with emotion. My wish had been granted. I have a healthy and happy boy! Today, like most boys his age, Joey loves superheroes, trucks, books, the iPad, going to preschool, exploring outside, and getting down to some good music. To us, our life feels pretty normal. Actually, our life feels pretty awesome! By sharing our story we hope to help new parents that may be struggling with their child's Down syndrome diagnosis. We want to help turn that fear into hope; to turn that anger into joy. We want to show that life with Down syndrome is a life worth living. So that's why Joey wears the Down syndrome awareness necklace - to show that there is nothing down about Down syndrome!" @gettingdownwithjoey