The Archers and Downs Syndrome.

baubles I can believe it. My niece's family would all say their lives were enriched by having her, despite the pain. It is by no means a simple issue is it?

The followers of Rudolf Steiner believe that people with Downs syndrome are a blessing.

In the mid 1970s at a day centre with boarding for children and young adults with learning difficulties I met a young guy with Downs syndrome in his late teens. He was about to climb on the flat roof with a step ladder to retrieve lost balls etc. I made some remark about taking care up there. The lad replied "Dont worry Miss I used to be a cat burglar!" That clever bit of repartee rather challenged my assumptions about the condition.

It has always been assumed that it was the age of the mother which was a factor in the conception of Downs syndrome babies, but I understand that it is in fact the father's age that makes the difference. So it is down to Mike and not Vicky.
We have a second cousin with Down's syndrome, her mother was 40 something when she was born and her father in his late 50's/early 60's. In a way she has been lucky as she will always be provided for, but sadly her father died of a stroke about 5 years ago just a year after their son, her older brother, dropped dead playing rugby in his late 20's . We always thought that he would the person to look after her after his parents had gone, but sadly that was not to be.

A relative and very close friend had a child with DS and she was just in her 20s, it can happen to anyone. She debunks the myth that they are all a happy bunch, they are happy and well adjusted only if they have been brought up that way. She also believes that mainstream education is not always right, it is not helpful to the child, and that is her job (special needs education) She felt making the child socially acceptable to be far more important than learning to read. Health is of concern, heart condition and gout need medication and oxygen therapy during the night.
This might sound negative but this family member is greatly loved and gives a lot in return.