July 11th - July 13th I had the opportunity to attend the 36th annual National Down Syndrome Congress Convention in Boston. I had the most amazing time!! Amelia and I went to Boston and stayed with Justin (Jeremy's Brother) and Becky, while Jeremy stayed home with Mary. I learned a lot and met some amazing people and self-advocates. I heard many youth and young adults share their personal stories of success. I met artists, authors, actors, chefs, musicians, college graduates, and soon to be newly-weds all with Down Syndrome. I was able to connect with a world renouned trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) research geneticist who was thrilled to meet me and eager to help Jeremy and me out in our search for answers. I was able to attend many helpful and informative workshops.
One of the best parts of the trip was being able to catch up with some of my Downsyn.com friends.
Some of the kiddos from Downsyn...
Some of the parents from Downsyn.com...
Self-Advocates (typical adults with Down syndrome, who talk of the day-to-day fabric of their lives and show the world that they are regular people leading regular and valuable lives.)...
Austin and Christi (getting married in 2009) holding Aleena (friend from Downsyn)
Ashley (lead actress in the movie Mr. Blue Sky) holding Amelia
Corbin (18 yr old artist)
Connor (Author of "America" a book on American history) and his mom.
Brad (highschool sports allstar in the highschool hall of fame)
Jessica (self-advocate) holding Amelia
One of the highlights was the Banquet on Saturday night that was followed by a dance. Chris Burke from the tv show Life Goes On was the DJ. It was a great party! I am so thrilled that I had the opportunity to attend the convention this year and can't wait until next years. Never before in my life have I been surrounded by a group of people so loving, pure, and full of joy than those who attended the convention. I am so blessed to have been introduced to this world. I have learned more about tolerance, overcoming obstacles, and love than I ever thought I would.
6 comments:
Hi! I am Emily (mom to Macy with T21). I just found your blog. I read a lot on Downsyn but don't have enough time in the day to post as much as I would like to. I would have loved to attend the conference. Maybe next year when it is a little closer to home (I live in Utah). I have always thought that your girls are absolutely beautiful and so lucky to have each other. I hope you don't mind if I add you to my links! (These blogs are really addictive!)
Yay! It sounds like it was as wonderful as you hoped it would be. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences.
Oh, what a neat experience. I'm so glad you enjoyed it. I love the pics to see all the accomplishments and smiling faces!
That is so awesome. I'm glad you got to go---what a great experience! Those pictures are so neat!
Hello, I'm Gayla and I just saw your blog listed on The Special K's. We were suppose to go to Boston this year but i couldn't afford it and gave Chelle my room (I see a picture of her Ciarra and a pic of part of her, lol). Last year was the first time I attended one. It was amazing. I was really wanting too this year because both my daughter with DS are old enough to attend the conference for advocates.
Glad you had a great time
GREAT PICTURES!It was so wonderful meeting you and sweet amelia!
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