Your Family Stories

This is a community where readers can post poems, thoughts or articles about loved ones, friends or colleagues who have Down's syndrome. 

If you have Down's syndrome and would love to write something for us, we will feature it on Our Voice: This Is Us! 









A Doula's Love


Elaine Walsh talks caesarians,
bonding and yoga in her guest post



Henrietta McMickling tells us of her pride
as son Luke learns to walk




Friend and single Dad Kristian Naylor writes about the influence of his Uncle Martin on him as he grew up. Martin approaches 50 and Kristian reflects on his life in Uncle Martin.

Katinka Soetens is a doula and was present at the birth of both our children. Here she speaks beautifully about her version of events the day Natty entered our world. 

Yasmin Din's story tells of how from shaky beginnings we all gain strength. She now talks to medical professionals to create change. 

Toni Bennett surprised her Mum by writing this beautiful piece about her and her younger brother Logan who has DS. Her Mum read it on a train, and was in tears! Lovely story x

Mardra Sikora has words of inspiration and wisom for us all as she tells of her hopes for her adult son in What Are You Going to Do When He Grows Up

An anonymous post by a nursery assistant tells sweetly of the power of Makaton.

Sandy Lawrence talks about motherhood and friendship and her journey through life with son Matthew.

Bernie Bradley tells us how Jinny's arrival has only made her quest for equality stronger.

Cara Cetrulo Thomas shares her thoughts on why March 21st will never be the same again.

Andie Barker writes a beautiful honest poem about her daughter's arrival in their lives.

Tracy Awramenko tells us how Charlie loves school, his brothers and life

Lizzie Chilton writes passionately about her prenatal diagnosis during an IVF pregnancy and her beautiful daughter, now nearly one in My Little Miracle.

Mags Quinnell tells us proudly about her  beautiful Princess Amber Rose.

Jen Julien is a grown up sister who has 2 brothers with Down Syndrome. Her happy story is here.


Sarah Stevens write honestly and openly about her experiences of welcoming George into the world in A Life Less Ordinary.


Henrietta McMicking shares the birth anouncement letter she planned to send to family and friends when Luke was born.


Caroline Playle talks about coming to terms with her son Seb's Down's Syndrome.

Katherine Routley's sister wrote this powerful poem when their daughter was born.



Michelle Bailey submitted this story about her Uncle and Aunt's journey through miscarriages and finally to meet their miracle son Jack. Jack doesn't have Down's Syndrome but his parents talk of their refusal to test because it made no difference to them. All children are special.

Read Elijah's story here.  

Read Charly Harris thoughts here. 


4 comments:

  1. Hayley, tonight I found the time to browse through the DSU site after a long break. I am impressed by many aspects of your work as so many are, but tonight I was most struck by you as a captivating story teller and natural teacher. I first knew you as a creative and highly effective language teacher. I have to confess I lamented the thought that motherhood was going to come between you and your career. Now having watched the video of you teaching Natty, I can see that your knowledge and skills as well as natural talent are being used where they are needed most - for your own child and in the heart of your own family. As your former employer, I am no longer waiting for you to return to work! Sorry, but I can't stop the tears while I say it. Your training as a language teacher has found a new niche, not just for Natty, but for hundreds of other Mums with with special needs children. I know your efforts are directed towards developing a whole person and not just language development. But then language development and communication skills are at the heart of it all. I think your readers must be made aware that you are a trained linguist and language teacher and that they can trust your recommended techniques. Mersedeh Proctor (friend, God Mother and former Colleague)

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    1. Thank you so very much. Your words mean such a lot to me Mersedeh x

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  2. I heard your contribution to the debate on abortion this morning. Thank you. The issue debated is not a simple choice abort or not. But at present it seems to be Political, and fit the rush to cut cost. Choosing to not kill your child seen as a selfish one at this time of 'austerity'.
    My son has Downs, is middle aged, and he is married. He has lived in a housing association flat with his wife for 15 years. Over the last 15 years the amount of support from some Local Authorities has shrunk to below safe levels. Our lives are now dominated by fear of the next crises. Once I accepted my son being different from his siblings, as a small baby, I have had only pleasure and pride from my son. He was no different as a child, just himself. He is a good wise man, who does not become bitter or judging of the people who disrespect him and his wife. But times are so hard for us older parents at present, and we are unable to reach a population who see our children, who have never committed crime or abused others, disposable objects and as economic costs.

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    1. Thank you so much for taking the time to write to me. At the same time I find your story inspirational yet unacceptable that adults are treated in such a way. And yes, our children are seen as disposible in times of austerity which has to be exposed and challenged. We need to shout that individuals with learning disabilities give so much back to their communities, are a natural part of life.
      H

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