Debbie Downer...

We're all basically good people, right? I look at my baby,  and I think, "God, I hope so." I get so scared when I think of the future. When I think of how others might view him, or worse, how they might treat him. He's a baby right now, and who doesn't like babies? But, what about when he's an adolescent, or a young man, or even an old man? Will people see him for the person he is, or will he be "that guy with Down syndrome/the Down's guy/etc.? Just insert worn platitude about how people with "Down's" are so sweet, special, cute, ______, fill in the blank. I always say that there are two things regarding Down syndrome that truly bother me. They both involve the future. Number one is the thought that people will not accept Cooper for the person he is, that they will not take the time to actually know him. That one, while it hurts from the viewpoint of a momma who wants her child to be accepted, doesn't pain my heart like number two. My biggest, worst fear is a double edged sword. I am afraid that Cooper will die before me. Life expectancy for persons with Down syndrome currently averages about 60 years old. This means that it is a possibility. The other side to that coin is that I'm afraid I'll die first and he will be left alone. What a miserable conundrum. I can't think of it too often. It is simply more than I can bear.
I can't really do much at present time to find a solution for that, but I can try to address issue number one. Can I ask for you help? Will you attempt to look past the differences of those around you and see the person? Will you look beyond stereotypes and outdated thought trajectories to gain a broader perspective? To help get you started, here are some current things about Cooper and his ever expanding personality:
-He despises having his nose or face wiped and fights vehemently against either.
-He terrorizes our dogs and his reign of terror only grows as he becomes more and more mobile.
-He doesn't care about the word "No." In fact, he smiles when you tell him no and proceeds!
-He loves to pat. He will put his little arms around your neck and pat you on the back. Cutest thing!
-He is quickly becoming more of a toddler and getting into everything.
-At present time, he is very much a momma's boy (which of course I love!).
-He must have whatever is on our plates. Not one tooth yet at 14 months, but brother can put the food away!
-He is brave, strong, stubborn, and growing more independent all the time.

So, please know that he is not a "Down's baby" or just "sweet." He's a multi-faceted human being, just like any other person. He has likes and dislikes, gets his feelings hurt, and has the capacity to learn and grow and be fulfilled. Did you know that there was a time when people like Cooper weren't allowed to go to public school. They were institutionalized in what were often deplorable conditions. It was preferred that they were not seen or heard in many cases. The strides that have been made are encouraging, but there's still a ways to go. A wise person once said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world."

Some random pics (just because he's so darn cute):