myHK: My Letter to the Down Syndrome Community
With World Down Syndrome Day fast approaching, I thought it’d be a good time for me to get some thoughts out.
My letter to the down syndrome community.
As a kid growing up in Canada, I never knew anyone with Down syndrome. I actually never met or even talked to someone who had it.
Fast forwarding to my 30’s and I’d still never interacted with someone who had Down syndrome and I still knew nothing about it!
I was then living in Hong Kong and was running a charity coaching football(soccer) to underprivileged youth. One evening I was giving a speech about the program and it’s success. After that speech, I was approached by a doctor, who just so happened to be the head doctor for the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association. He asked me if I thought a programme like this could work for the children in the HKDSA.
I had absolutely no idea.
But I told him I’d try and find out. And that was one of the best decisions of my life.
We are now in our 8th year of the programme and the kids are like family to me.
Photo by Sean Creamer
When we play football, people all around the pitch notice!
Not just because of the loud, “smacks” from many extremely strong high fives…but mainly from the amount of love and kindness that radiates from our participants.
I try to share these incredible moments with as many friends as possible. Everyone should experience the love and pureness that those with down syndrome know exactly how to give.
So I want to say THANKS for letting me in!
I wish everyone had the opportunity to be a part of your lives. This world could sure use your love.
MrJ
Photo by Sean Creamer
The Guest Room 
This is such a beautiful post. It is so wonderful that you are receiving so much from your experience and that they are thriving under your guidance.
i knew a couple of children while I was growing up who had DS and was always amazed with the optimism with which they greeted every day. Truly inspiring it is.
Happy new year Brielle!! I’m glad you had the opportunity to get to know people with DS. Not enough people do!!
Have a great start to the year of the goat!!
MrJ
Thank you Mr J. 恭禧發財/Gong Hey Fat Choy to you also!!
Reblogged this on The Guest Room and commented:
With tomorrow being World Down Syndrome Day, let’s revisit my letter to the DS community.