It’s not just Down Syndrome Day today, but it’s WORLD Down Syndrome Day, and this day attempts to create awareness and celebrate people with Down Syndrome.

People with Down syndrome, people who work with them and their families organizes and participates in activities advocating for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome.

This year’s theme is “right to work“, which focuses on the right of persons with disabilities to work, on an equal basis with others.

Today is also the day where I as a father is extremely proud of his girls;

• Firstly, my oldest daughter wrote a beautiful poem for her brother who has Down Syndrome, and my wife create the video – see below
• Secondly, my wife is attending the conference in the UN today, which will help her get more involved in this great cause and meet many new people.

My son is born with Down Syndrome and it an absolute privilege to be his father.  Yes, it is trying at times, but having kids in general can be challenging too.  As my father told me some years ago “you just have to say no a few more times, but I had to say no many times to you too!”.

I sometime wish he would be much further along with his vocal developments, but then I look at how much he has progressed in the last 18 months.  The amount of support he gets in school is great and they really push him hard.  No wonder he’s knackered when coming home from school.

I want what's best for him and I want him to be happy.

Some people have expressed their sadness when they hear I have a son with Down Syndrome, to which I reply that I’m not sad and why should I be?

To me he’s my son, my mini-me.  I love him to bits and wouldn’t change anything.  His sisters love him.  His mum adores him.  His family and friends love him.  AND, he’s super happy 🙂

…what more could I possible ask for?

I’m a very proud dad of a kid with Down Syndrome – happy to share my experiences with any of you out there, if you are a new parent of a kid with Down Syndrome, or just a parent in general.