Letters to Me: Dear Kate

You have just received the call from the Dr. ‘The results are positive for Down Syndrome’ she says. You are 29 weeks pregnant and scared of what is to come. You can’t imagine your life anymore…

I wish you knew then what I know now…

I wish you knew that Charlie is a beautiful, sweet, inquisitive, kind and joyful little boy. He is now 4 and exploring the world in his own fiercely independent way. Charlie does everything on his own timeline and every hard-won milestone feels so much sweeter for it. 

You wondered if you could do ‘this’, if you could handle everything that may come with Down Syndrome. I wish you knew that you become an advocate for Charlie. You are so much more capable than you gave yourself credit for and Charlie is thriving.

I wish you knew that the new friends you will meet, will be the most wonderfully unexpected part of this journey. You can’t imagine doing this without them by your side (and in your pocket via Messenger). This sense of belonging from meeting others, your love for your family and your love of helping others has helped create a local community that fosters connection between local families. You never want anyone to feel alone on this journey. 

I wish you knew that Charlie is the wonderful final piece to your family and every time he calls you all in for a ‘five-person cuddle’ your heart grows just a little bit bigger. He is adored by his big sisters Emily and Matilda and adores them just as much in return. His joyous smile, his cheeky giggle, his funky dancing and his sweet cuddles are everything and more you could have wanted for your little boy. 

You are doing an amazing job. 

Written by Kate, Ambassador Charlie's Mum