Resources for Expectant Families with a Down Syndrome Diagnosis
Jerome Lejeune Foundation USA
While the Jerome Lejeune Foundation in France focuses on Research, Care, and Advocacy, the Jerome Lejeune Foundation USA centers its activities on Care and Advocacy. In March 2021, we opened a medical center pilot program for those with Down syndrome in Denver, Colorado, in partnership with Bella Health + Wellness.
DSDN Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
Whether you are awaiting your child’s arrival or your baby has just been born, a new or potential diagnosis can seem overwhelming. We are here to help. DSDN will provide you with: support and connections, national and local resources, accurate, updated, unbiased information
Down Syndrome Advocacy Foundation
The Down Syndrome Advocacy Foundation (DSAF) was formed by a group of families that are striving to make a difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome. DSAF is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Down syndrome through advocacy and supporting inclusion within schools, communities, and the work place. A lack of consistency exists in the application of best practices for early intervention, education, and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome in our communities, schools, and work environments.
Videos
2022 March for Life: Katie Shaw, Down Syndrome Advocate
Abortion Rejected by Parents of Child with Down Syndrome
Books
A Special Mother is Born: Parents Share How God Called Them to the Extraordinary Vocation
by: Leticia Velasquez
The Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome: Advice, Information, Inspiration and Support for Raising Your Child From Diagnosis to Adulthood
by: Jen Jacob and Mardra Sikora
Teaching Reading to Children With Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Teachers (Topics in Down Syndrome)
by: Patricia Logan Oelwein
Gifts: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives
by: Kathryn Lynard Soper
Count Us In, Growing Up With Down Syndrome
by: Jason Kingsley and Mitchell Levitz
My Child, My Gift: A Positive Response to Serious Prenatal Diagnosis
by: Madeline P. Nugent
(click here to see the review in the September-October 2008 Celebrate Life and her website offer testimonials and try to “make sense out what seems to be senseless”)
Social Media Groups
ACDS Parents and Friends, Facebook
Long Island Ds Mommies, Facebook
DOWN SYNDROME CREED
My face may be different but my feelings the same
I laugh and I cry. I take pride in my gains.
I was sent here among you to teach you to love,
As God in the Heavens looks down from above.
To Him I’m no different; His love knows no bounds.
It’s those here among you in cities and towns
That judge me by standards that man has imparted
But the family He’s chosen will help me get started.
For I’m one of His children so special and few
That came here to learn the same lessons as you.
That love is acceptance; it must come from the heart.
We all have the same purpose though not the same start.
The Lord gave me life to live and embrace
And I’ll do it as you do — just at my own pace.