Letters to Me: Dear Chris

Do you remember that moment when your wife, Gayle, discovered she was pregnant?

Absolutely.  We were both stunned — almost upset — and I couldn’t help but wonder about the future, especially when life was finally beginning to feel settled.

Then came the conversation with the doctor. Given our stage in life, he explained there was a chance the baby could have Down syndrome. He even asked whether we wanted to proceed with the pregnancy.

But, given our beliefs, we carried on.

An optional scan later revealed a specific neck feature that could increase the likelihood of the baby having Down syndrome. Still, we chose to continue — fully aware of the possibilities. That scan, if anything was there to prepare us. But it was never a guarantee.

We held no expectations — not one way or the other. We simply looked forward to another child, a sibling for our 14-year-old daughter, Gemma.

Then came the early morning. You were wary of the usual labour cramps Gayle was feeling. But suddenly, while she was on the toilet, everything changed. You called the ambulance. It was 6:54 AM when you helped deliver your baby girl — Sophie Kate.

After the delivery, there was a sense of quiet uncertainty among the nurses. A paediatrician was called, and it was then determined: Sophie had Down syndrome.

You were stunned. What had now become your reality filled you with questions — fears — about the future. About your life. All of it.

But somehow, even in that haze, you found the strength and the will to learn, to grow, and to ensure Sophie would thrive. You made a quiet promise to help her be her best, to be herself — to integrate fully into your family, your community, and into Gemma’s life as a beloved sister.

You would come to know both challenge and deep joy. Sophie would be raised not with limitations, but with opportunities — in learning, in love, in laughter. Sophie would become part of every family moment, every memory, every heartbeat.

When Sophie turns 21, you will be forever proud of her achievements — from attending mainstream school to being celebrated by her peers not for her disability, but for her abilities. For her warmth, her joy, her music, her zest and love for life and living it to the full.

And ultimately, you will come to realize something profound:

That through Sophie, you will receive more than you ever imagined:, unconditional love, music and a journey that will take you to places that you never thought possible with a village of awesome and supportive people.

With love and gratitude,

Chris

Ambassador Sophie's dad.