I read things like that with mixed emotions. Our son turns 25 tomorrow. His story is nothing like Jillian's. The biggest trouble I have with stories like hers is from the people who don't know what it is like to raise a child who happens to have Downs. They point the accusing finger at the parents who "don't realize the potential" of their own child -- so they think. I'm tired of "normal" being the bar of success for the kids with Downs. Fighting the system is not the only way to raise a special child. But he is certainly right about the teachers and the meetings. I taught special ed before our son was born. The kids are folders, not people.
Wow, thanks for sharing that. And it was worth every minute to read. "Jillian wasn't born 19 years ago. She was unleashed." I love that line. :-)
ReplyDeleteWoah, that was incredible! I need to print several copies to share his speech!
ReplyDeleteI read things like that with mixed emotions. Our son turns 25 tomorrow. His story is nothing like Jillian's. The biggest trouble I have with stories like hers is from the people who don't know what it is like to raise a child who happens to have Downs. They point the accusing finger at the parents who "don't realize the potential" of their own child -- so they think. I'm tired of "normal" being the bar of success for the kids with Downs. Fighting the system is not the only way to raise a special child. But he is certainly right about the teachers and the meetings. I taught special ed before our son was born. The kids are folders, not people.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely worth the time to read! thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteAwesome reading, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting that...I so hope that I am able to help Saira realise her full potential one day, and as he so aptly puts it, expect don't accept.
ReplyDeleteThat was so inspirational.thanks for sharing...
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful.......very inspiring! Thanks for sharing this Stephanie!! I too, will share this as well!!
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