T21Mom-A Down Syndrome podcast

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T21Mom: Episode 148-Sweet Stories of Inclusion: A Conversation With Author Jeana Atkison on Her Book How to Eat a Cupcake 35:10

vor 11 Tagen35:10

35:10

In this episode, Mary is joined by child author Jeana Atkison to talk about her new children's book How to Eat a Cupcake. They discuss the inspiration behind the story, how it subtly and beautifully includes characters with disabilities, and why representation in children's literature is so important. Jeana shares her thoughts on integrating inclusion naturally through storytelling and the message she hopes kids and families take away from the book. Order your copy of How to Eat a Cupcake at paperseedpress.com Follow T21Mom: Facebook: @T21Mom Instagram: @Trisomy21Momma X: @Trisomy21Momma…

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T21Mom:Episode 147-Glitter Glue & Grace: A Love Letter to My Tribe 12:30

vor 25 Tagen12:30

12:30

Please like and subscribe and even leave a review! In this deeply personal and heartfelt episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary opens up about a heavy season filled with hospital visits, health scares, and the current challenges of parenting. But through it all, one thing has kept her going-her tribe of Haunted Rocking Moms. These incredible women, all moms of children with Down syndrome have wrapped Mary in love, laughter, and support when she's needed it most. From surprise gifts to heartfelt messages, they've reminded her that she's never alone. This episode is a love letter to her tribe-a warm thank you and a reminder of the power of community when life gets hard.…

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T21Mom: Episode 146- 11 Days to Forever: Cathy's Diagnosis Story 49:41

vor 5 weeks49:41

49:41

Please subscribe and leave a review! In this heartfelt episode, Mary chats with Cathy Middlestetter, mom to 27 year-old Cassie, who has Down syndrome. Cathy received a prenatal diagnosis just 11 days before Cassie was born-without the support of social media or online communities. Mary loved hearing Cathy's journey-how her strength, determination, and how she found connection in those early days. From breastfeeding to inclusion, Cathy was a true trailblazer for the Down syndrome community. Tune in to hear a story of courage, love and finding your people. Connect with Mary: T21Mom.com Follow, subscribe and leave a review to support the show!…

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T21Mom: Episode 145-Rock Your Socks-the Joy and Real Talk of World Down Syndrome Day 17:35

vor 9 weeks17:35

17:35

Happy World Down Syndrome Day! Today we are celebrating the incredible individuals who rock that extra chromosome-and yes, we're also rocking our mismatched socks! In this episode we dive into the fun and the real talk of World Down Syndrome Day. World Down Syndrome Day is a day for joy, advocacy, and raising awareness, but let's be real-it can also be a tough day for some parents. Whether you're dancing in celebration or feeling all the emotions, this episode is for you! So grab you mismatched socks, hit play, and let's celebrate together-whatever that looks like for you today.…

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T21Mom-Episode 144: Surviving the Chaos: High School Anxiety, Special O Wins & The Great iPad Destruction 20:41

vor 11 weeks20:41

20:41

Be sure to give a rating and leave a review! Hey friends, it's your friend Mary, and yes-I'm back! Life threw a few curveballs (because of course it did) and I needed a minute. But I missed you all, so let's catch up! In this episode, I'm sharing all the chaos, laughs, and real talk about what's been going on. From my aunt's health scare, to Dennis bravely tackling Costco (on a Saturday no less), to Ainsley's latest adventures -including her ongoing mission to break every iPad screen ever made. Tune in to hear: - Why my house feels like a circus with aging parents, Ainsley and family responsibilities -Ainsley's ever-changing vocal stims (from wailing on a plane to grunting-I'll take it) - How we accidentally joined Special Olympics and why I'm so glad we did - The very real anxiety of high school transitions (spoiler: there are zero childcare options) - Some unexpected wins-like Ainsley rocking swim physio, actually wearing goggles, and improving her reading skills! My attempts at self-care (running, reading and knitting my "Paris socks"_ Let's be real-some days are just HARD. But there are always bright spots and I'm holding onto those. Links & Resources: Book I'm reading: I Don't Do Disability and Other Lies I've Told Myself by Adele Purdham Have topic ideas or want to share your story? Leave me a message at T21Mom.com Thanks for listening-l love you all! Keep on lovin' on your rockin' kiddos and I'll see you next time!…

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T21Mom: Episode 143-Christmas Cheer, Cookie Chaos, and Matching PJs: A Holiday Special! 34:47

vor 22 weeks34:47

34:47

Please like and review the T21Mom podcast on Apple or Spotify! It's the most wonderful time of the year, and we're back with the annual T21Mom Podcast Christmas Special! I'm Mary, mom to Ainsley, my amazing 12 year-old with the dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism, and I'm thrilled to share all the holiday fun, chaos and traditions with you in this episode. This year's Christmas season has been a mix of festive joy and well, exhaustion! Between tackling 72 Advent Cookie Boxes (yes 72!), decking the halls a bit last, hosting our 2nd annual Haunted Rockin' Moms Christmas Zoom and gift exchange (which included wine, laughter and more wine), there's never a dull moment. We also carried on our beloved traditions, like our annual cookie decorating party, which has grown to include nieces, nephews, friends and even Zahra, who insists it's now part of her tradition, too! I love seeing how these little moments become cherished memories for everyone. In this episode, I also share some of our favourite holiday traditions, like Christmas Eve mass, a visit to my friend Marcie's for food and wine, and one of my favourite parts of the season-seeing the dazzling light displays at Capilano Suspension Bridge and Trinity Street. We also chat about gift-giving struggles (anyone else have a kiddo who's tricky to shop for?), how Canada Post's strike led to creative Santa letter solutions and a bit of reflection on the podcast's future as we head into the new year. So grab your Christmas bells (do you have them?!) and join us for some holiday cheer, heartfelt memories and a little holiday hilarity. What are your favourite holiday traditions? Let me know-I'd love to hear how you celebrate!…

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T21Mom: Episode 142-Finding Love Beyond the Diagnosis: Colleen Johnson's Journey with Baby Luke 58:37

vor 23 weeks58:37

58:37

Please leave a rating or a review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Join Mary for another heartfelt chapter in the Down Syndrome Diaries: Diagnosis Stories. In this episode, Mary sits down with Rockin' Mom Colleen Johnson who courageously shares the raw and emotional story of her son Luke's diagnosis. Colleen opens up about the grief that consumed her in the early days-grief so profound she wondered if she'd ever be able to "not see ." But through time, love and the unwavering support of her family, Colleen found her way to an unshakable bond with her son and a profound appreciation for the joy he brings into their lives. One of the most touching moments Colleen shares is her mother's immediate acceptance of Luke's diagnosis. Her mom's calm reassurance and steadfast love became a guiding light for Colleen, reminding her that Luke was, above all else, her baby, a gift to love and cherish. Be sure to follow Colleen and her family's story on Instagram at "Our life with Luke." Thank you for tuning in to the T21Mom podcast. If this episode touched your heart, please share it with others who need a little inspiration today.…

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T21Mom: Episode 141-The Rockin Moms Take Vegas 1:24:41

vor 25 weeks1:24:41

1:24:41

Please rate and leave a review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! Hold onto your wine, because this week Mary takes us to the Rockin' Moms Retreat in fabulous Las Vegas! It's an episode filled with friendship, laughter, and just a little bit of ghostly mischief. Mary spills the tea (and maybe some cocktails) about how taking time away with her Haunted Rockin' Moms crew is the ultimate reset. Think poolside relaxation, late-night heart-to-hearts, and plenty of shenanigans that only a Vegas trip could inspire. Highlights include: Zak Bagans' Haunted Museum: Where Mary stared fear in the face...and probably laughed nervously. Tiny Jesus: A small statue with a big story that will leave you inspired and giggling. Hell's Kitchen: A dinner so amazing, even Gordon Ramsay might approve of the table manners. Moms Night Out: Glamourous outfits, unforgettable memories, and zero regrets. The Legendary Haunted Rockin' Moms Pub Crawl: Because what happens in Vegas stays...mostly in this episode. There's laughter, inspiration, and maybe one or two questionable beverage choices-because let's be real, it's Vegas, baby! Tune in for the fun, stay for the feels, and don't forget: what happens in the podcast might just stay with you forever.…

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T21Mom-Episode 140: Olympic Dreams in Paris-Mary, Ainsley and Dennis Take on the Games! 1:02:10

vor 29 weeks1:02:10

1:02:10

Join Mary, Ainsley and Dennis on an epic journey to the Paris Olympics! This week's episode dives into the highs (and hurdles) of making it to Paris, from battling extreme motion sickness to a last-minute dead iPad. But once they arrived, the Games were an unforgettable adventure! From the pool to the trampoline, and track to race walking, Mary covers it all! Get an insider's view on a jam-packed schedule that brought her up close with the world's greatest athletes. Hear Mary's thrilling accounts of iconic races, including the electric men's 100 metre final, Canada's unforgettable gold in the 4x100 metre relay, and cheering on Canadian stars Mo Ahmed and Marco Arop in track. When they weren't at the Games Mary, Ainsley and Dennis explored some of Paris's most iconic sights, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysees. Mary describes seeing the iconic Mona Lisa up close at the Louvre and other memorable moments around the city of lights.…

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T21Mom-Episode 139: Embracing Rocktober-Advocacy, Awareness & Finding Balance 14:29

vor 31 weeks14:29

14:29

In this episode of T21Mom, Mary opens up about the significance of "Rocktober"-a special month for Down Syndrome Awareness. She discusses her personal approach to celebrating this important month and candidly shares the struggles she faces, including feeling guilty for not being fully engaged in the festivities. Despite her deep passion for advocacy, Mary talks about the exhaustion that sometimes comes with it, and how advocating can feel like a never-ending journey. Mary also highlights some of the amazing ways other Rockin' Moms are celebrating and advocating during Rocktober, offering inspiration and ideas for those looking to get involved. Tune in to hear how you can make a difference this month, whether you're fully embracing Rocktober or finding your own unique way to contribute. For more details, visit T21Mom.com…

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T21Mom-Episode 138: Finding Your People: The Power of Connection on the T21Mom Journey 14:55

vor 34 weeks14:55

14:55

Join Mary in today's episode as she shares her personal journey through challenging times and the importance of self-care. In this episode, Mary opens up about the struggles that she faced when Ainsley started kindergarten, managing difficult behaviours and how she found her way back to focusing on her own well-being. Discover the tools that helped Mary through her hardest moments, from therapy to her "happy pill," and hear her heartfelt message to other special needs moms-you are not alone. Mary talks about the power of connection, sharing her experience with the Rockin Moms Retreat and how it transformed her life by bonding with other moms. She shares the importance of finding your community, whether in person or online, and how it can make all the difference on this journey.…

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Turning Negativity Into Strength: Melissa Miller's Down Syndrome Diagnosis Story 48:51

vor 36 weeks48:51

48:51

In today's episode, we hear Melissa Miller's emotional story of how she received her son Hunter's Down syndrome diagnosis, which had a heartbreaking beginning. A doctor stood at the door of her hospital room , told her the news in the most impersonal way, and even suggested that no one would judge her if she left her baby at the hospital. This shocking experience was just 10 years ago, and sadly, similar stories are still happening today. But Melissa turned this negativity into strength and love for her son and hear how this negative experience lit a fire under her. Follow us on Facebook at T21Mom and I'm also on Instagram at Trisomy21Momma Become part of the community at T21Mom.com Thanks for listening and being part of the Tribe!…

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T21Mom-Episode 136: Back to School-Are You Excited, Happy, Sad, Anxious or a Little Bit of Everything? 13:19

vor 37 weeks13:19

13:19

Summer is over and school is back in session! Mary shares about the return to school and Ainsley going into grade 7-her final year of elementary school. Mary talks about their wins, but also her trepidations and anxiousness over the coming school year and beyond.

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T21Mom-Episode 135: Finding Beauty in the Unplanned: Sandra Di Curzio's Journey Through Joy, Guilt and Acceptance 1:13:54

vor 37 weeks1:13:54

1:13:54

In an intimate conversation, Mary sits down with Sandra Di Curzio, who opens up about the emotional journey she embarked on after her daughter Chiara's birth diagnosis. Sandra's story is one of raw honesty about post partum depression, guilt, and learning that life can still be beautiful while exploring the complexities of motherhood when life takes an unexpected turn.…

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T21Mom-Episode 134: Unshakable Love: The Vester Family's Inspiring Journey Through Parenthood and Diagnosis 57:04

vor 38 weeks57:04

57:04

Mary dives into an exhilarating conversation with John and Nicole Vester. From the very beginning, John was ready to document much of the pregnancy on his blog. Initially expecting twins, to later finding out there was only one heartbeat, the emotional rollercoaster didn't end there. As if decoding the NIPT results weren't challenging enough, they found themselves navigating the confusion that arose from Nicole initially carrying twins. Despite these issues. the odds of their baby being born with Down syndrome were low. However, when their son was 5 days old, they received the news that their son, Finn, was born with Down syndrome. For many, this might have been a turning point, but for John and Nicole, it was simply part of their incredible journey. Down syndrome didn't change their love or commitment, but rather strengthened their bond and their new resolve to give Finn the best life possible. Their story is an inspiring testament to the power of love, patience and perseverance. The Vesters show us that no matter the challenges, with a heart full of love and a spirit of determination, anything is possible…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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Embracing the Unexpected: Christiana Thiessen's Down Syndrome Journey of Love and Resilience 57:08

vor 43 weeks57:08

57:08

Mary sits down for an enlightening conversation with Christiana Thiessen, a courageous Canadian who along with her husband moved to Jordan to assist with the Syrian refugee crisis. Just a year and a half later, Christiana discovered she was pregnant with her first child. Joy quickly turned to uncertainty when she learned that her baby would be born with Down syndrome. Facing this challenge in a foreign country was daunting. Yet , Christiana's journey to acceptance was swift and profound. Within 24 hours of receiving the diagnosis, she embraced her baby's future with unwavering love. Despite facing skepticism from doctors and advice to return to Canada due to limited support for her baby in Jordan, Christiana and her husband made the brave decision to relocate back to Canada within six days of receiving their baby's diagnosis. In her conversation with Mary, Christiana shares a powerful message: a Down syndrome diagnosis is not the end of the world. Instead, it opens up a path of different, yet equally meaningful experiences. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless power of love and acceptance.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 132: From Overlooked to Overcoming: Puja Mehta's Down Syndrome Diagnosis Journey with Aaryav 1:09:49

vor 44 weeks1:09:49

1:09:49

In an incredibly raw and often heartbreaking conversation, Mary sits down with Puja Mehta to delve into the story of her son Aaryav's diagnosis. Puja, who currently resides in India, spent several years in the United States, where she gave birth to both her children. She recounts the experience of a medical system that failed her long before Aaryav, who was born with Down syndrome, came into the world. From the beginning, red flags were missed. Markers on her ultrasounds, indicative of Down syndrome, were overlooked. When Aaryav was born, Puja immediately sensed something was different-he didn't resemble either her or her husband and he struggled to latch. Despite these signs, no doctor followed up on one doctor's suspicion of Aaryav having Down syndrome that was noted in his chart. Puja describes this period as an emotional time. It wasn't until a lactation consultant, four weeks after Aaryav's birth, congratulated her and remarked how beautiful Arya was, that Puja began to see a glimmer of light. This moment marked the beginning of her journey from shock and confusion to acceptance and love.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 131: It's the End of the Year and I Feel Fine 23:25

vor 46 weeks23:25

23:25

It's the end of the school year and Mary shares about the type of year it's been with another new EA for Ainsley. She shares Ainsley's successes and what it means to have a good team to support your child. Mary also talks about a great day at the PNE where Ainsley rode the big roller coaster for the very first time (she wasn't one bit scared) and their big plans for the summer.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 130: Against All Odds: A Mother's Journey of Hope, Strength and Miracles 1:14:41

vor 48 weeks1:14:41

1:14:41

In a heartfelt conversation, Mary sits down with Kim Revai, who shares the incredible and emotional story of her son Jace's birth. Kim's journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of a mother facing unimaginable challenges. Jace entered the world at an astonishing 26 weeks and one day, far earlier than expected. Kim, living far from her family was told to go directly to the hospital and prepare for his birth, plunging her into a whirlwind of fear and uncertainty. Despite his very premature birth, Jace has defied all odds. Initially doctors believed he would need heart surgery and a tracheostomy, yet Jace has triumphed without either. Kim's narrative is one of enduring courage, demonstrating that even in the face of the hardest of trials , one can persevere and do hard things. Admist the trials, Kim and her family have held onto their dream of RV living and making it a reality. This dream symbolizes not just the desire for adventure, but their relentless hope and faith in the face of life's toughest moments.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 129: Crash, Bourbon and Fascinators: The Haunted Rockin' Moms Do The Kentucky Derby! 1:03:00

vor 48 weeks1:03:00

1:03:00

Mary and a group of her Haunted Rockin' Mom friends meet and go to the 150th Kentucky Derby. These women all met on a haunted pub crawl back in 2022, and have forged an incredible friendship. They pack in a lot over the Derby weekend, including a bourbon tasting, scooter escapades, the Thirsty Peddler and of course, the exhilaration of the Derby itself.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 128 - Defying the Odds and Carving Her Own Path: A Down Syndrome Journey With Sabine Kussman 40:53

vor 49 weeks40:53

40:53

Mary sits down with Sabine Kussman, who recounts her poignant journey of her son Kian's diagnosis and her family's courageous path forward. From a heart-wrenching beginning, where two weeks passed without a single medical professional congratulating her on son's birth, to facing discouragement about breastfeeding, Sabine learned to trust her instincts. Despite therapists' negative predictions, Kian defied the odds, walking at 14 months , riding a bike and even mastering downhill skiing. Sabine passionately shares how her family, guided by unwavering expectations and love for Kian, does everything they dream of. In a deeply moving moment, Sabine remembers when her two year old son, with innocent wisdom, reassured her, "don't worry mommy, everything is going to be fine!" And indeed it has been-more than fine!…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 127: Dreams Come True: Shiloh Carte's Journey to Embracing Down Syndrome 38:09

vor 1 year38:09

38:09

Mary has an engaging and heartfelt conversation with Shiloh Carte who shares her not very typical, diagnosis story. In fact, Shiloh predicted her child with Down syndrome! Over a year before she was even pregnant, Shiloh had a dream that was so vivid and so powerful that she knew with all her being that it had to be true-she dreamt that she was going to have a baby with Down syndrome and it would be a girl! Hear how Shiloh shares her vision with her husband, family and even medical professionals and how her dream came true!…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 126: Embracing the Heart: Stacey Herncane's Journey Through Diagnosis, Grief and Celebration of Down Syndrome 43:45

vor 1 year43:45

43:45

Mary chats with fellow Rockin' Mom Stacey Herncane who shares her diagnosis story. Stacey waited in limbo for a week until she was given a definitive diagnosis for her son. From grief of thinking "why her" and how this just wasn't a possibility in her and her husband's lives, to taking lessons from third graders and learning to celebrate Down syndrome, Stacey goes through all the emotions. And sometimes the greatest lessons come from kids.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 125 - You Gotta Have Faith-From Heartbreak to Hope, Dorothy's Diagnosis Story 43:12

vor 1 year43:12

43:12

Mary's heart-to-heart with Dorothy reveals the power of faith and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Dorothy's journey from miscarriage to pregnancy is a testament to the human spirit and the importance of holding onto hope. Twenty years later, she recalls receiving the diagnosis news of her daughter Faith with such vivid detail, showing how these moments shape our lives and stay with us forever.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 124 - Embracing Resilience and Hope: Kellie Anderson's Inspiring Down Syndrome Diagnosis Journey 36:50

vor 1 year36:50

36:50

Mary's conversation with Kellie Anderson reveals a powerful story of resilience and hope. Despite Kellie's Rh factor creating obstacles during her pregnancy, she remained determined and inspired. When her baby Raina was born with Down syndrome, Kellie's husband provided unwavering support and reassurance. Kellie's message to new parents is one of positivity and courage, reminding them that everything will be alright.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom-Episode 123: Down Syndrome Diaries: Shelli DeGroot's Story of Faith, Love and Resilience 38:14

vor 1 year38:14

38:14

Mary engages in a heartfelt conversation with Shelli DeGroot delving into her remarkable journey of diagnosis and resilience. Shelli recounts the unexpected twist of a pregnancy even after having her tubes tied, followed by the surprising news of her baby having Down syndrome. Through it all, Shelli finds solace in her faith, believing that her son is destined for great things. She reflects on the impact of a book she read during pregnancy which unknowingly prepared her for her son's birth diagnosis. Shelli's story is a testament to the transformative power of love and strength, as she shares how her son has not only enriched her life but also made her a better, more compassionate individual. Through her journey, Shelli reminds us that we possess untapped resilience and love, far beyond what we may believe possible.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom-Episode 122- Keller Kuhn's Diagnosis Story: "I prayed for a child with extra needs." 33:28

vor 1 year33:28

33:28

Mary chats with mom Keller Kuhn for the first episode in the diagnosis stories series. Keller is Mom to Timmy, who is almost 22 years old, and she shares how she actually prayed for a child with extra needs, what prompted this and how she felt when her prayers were finally answered. Keller raised five children, including Timmy who has Down syndrome and the dual diagnosis of autism, as a single parent. She shares her wisdom from her journey and says she is not "super duper special" and that we have all been chosen because of what our kids have to offer us.…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 121: Happy Post World Down Syndrome Day-do you love this day or does it cause you some grief and anxiety? 13:45

vor 1 year13:45

13:45

Mary shares her personal experience on this past World Down Syndrome Day and cool experience after wearing her "Love Down Syndrome" shirt. She also shares that even though this day is important, that this year she didn't do a whole lot other than wearing mismatched socks and her Down syndrome shirt and her subsequent feelings about this. And Mary also has some big news about her Haunted Rocking Moms and some exciting summer plans!…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom-Episode 120 Identical Twins and Mosaic Down Syndrome With Lauren Zwick 51:28

vor 1 year51:28

51:28

Mary chats with Lauren Zwick, mom to Emma and Lily who are identical twins with mosaic Down syndrome-a true rarity! Lauren shares the uniqueness of her twins and how their mosaicism affects them differently. It is a fascinating and intriguing conversation about twins, mosaic Down syndrome and Down syndrome. Lauren's daughter Lily makes an appearance and shares what it means to have Down syndrome and being an identical twin to her sister, Emma. For more information on mosaic Down syndrome, visit imdsa.org…

T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

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T21Mom - Episode 119 My Diagnosis Story-When I Learned My Baby Would Be Born With Down Syndrome. 21:27

vor 1 year21:27

21:27

Mary shares her personal story of being a single mom by choice and receiving a prenatal diagnosis that her baby would be born with Down Syndrome. She talks of her intense feelings of grief and sadness upon learning of her baby's diagnosis, but also how she came to acceptance of the diagnosis and when her baby was born, it was a true celebration.…

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