My Story: A Letter To People Who Stare At My Teen Daughter With Down Syndrome

I saw you when you looked up with the familiar, inquisitive stare. When our eyes met, I noticed it. Fear? Anxiety? Maybe. I know when you see us, we may look a little “different,” and we may act differently, too. When we walk through the grocery store aisles, or any public place, I usually hold my daughter’s hand, or she holds my arm as we walk. She can tire easily and is easily distracted. Sometimes she makes loud noises — not always words, but still, her way of expression. For her, a simple trip can be complicated. The lights, the noise, and the people; can be exhausting. READ: Powerful Film”Breathe” Puts A Spotlight On The Dangers of Preeclampsia Every Black Woman Should Know When she was just 2 or 3 years old, I don’t think many people took notice, and we didn’t receive all these curious looks. But she is 13 now. She has Down syndrome. She is awesome. To the person who feels awkward around my teen, I get it. The unknown can be scary. I honestly felt that way when my daughter was born. At 22 and with an uncomplicated pregnancy aside from preeclampsia, I had no idea...