Dear Parents,
The doctors have told you by now that your new baby has Down Syndrome. Hopefully, they have also given you some basic information about what that will mean to you, your baby, and your family. We, the Delaware County Down Syndrome Interest Group (DCDSIG), hope the information presented on this page will be helpful as you begin the adventure of raising your child.
The feelings that you are having right now are probably intense; we can assure you that you will not always feel as you are feeling now. Yes, life will never again be as it was. Your baby will bring you so many smiles that you will wonder at your early tears. The many happy moments you share will help you forget the depth of your present feelings.
It is hard to be told that your beautiful child has Down Syndrome; and there will be days of incredible sadness, of agonizing decisions, and endless worry. But, there will also be laughter, joy and thousands of little triumphs that will make the difficult times worthwhile.
Many families have stated that talking to parents of children with Down Syndrome has been the most helpful action they have taken. Parents understand feelings, and can answer questions better then anyone else--they have already walked the path that you are just starting. If you are interested in talking to someone please call (610)-544-4025, and we will connect you with another parent.
Savor these first weeks of babyhood; hold and cuddle and get to know this unique little human being. And remember, that first and foremost, this child will need what every other child needs--to be loved, accepted, and valued for being who he or she is.
Most importantly, we are here to speak with you, share our experiences, and have you meet our children. We would be happy to speak with you now or whenever you are ready. We may be strangers at first, but the common link we have is our love for our children. Our support group meets on the second Thursday of the month at 7:00 PM at the John Hancock United Methodist Church on Route 320 in Springfield. We would love to see you there when you are ready.
We wish you the best!
