Tell us a little bit about you and your family…
My name is Jessica my daughter’s name is Julianna. She is one year old and was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at birth. We live in Joliet, Illinois and our favorite hobbies are singing “Row Your Boat” and going to the park.
What’s the one word you would pick to describe Julianna?
Hope.
What do you want the world to know about Down syndrome? What has Julianna taught you?
Down syndrome does not define my daughter. It just makes her more special. Don’t count her out or underestimate her! She can do and will do everything a non-Down syndrome child can, just at her own pace and time.
What would you tell a parent who just received a diagnosis of Down syndrome?
God loved your child so much that He spent a little extra time on him/her. It was so much time that He gave them an extra chromosome to make them even more special.
What else should people know about Down syndrome?
My daughter was diagnosed at birth. I remember holding her the first time, looking right into her eyes and saying out loud she has Down Syndrome. I never feared the diagnosis. I feared the future when I’m no longer here on earth to protect her. I know now that my child is stronger then anybody I know and she will be Miss Independent. I have nothing to worry about. She is one year old and has survived open-heart surgery. Julianna is a miracle. I let the worries of the future go and enjoy the ride of life with the most perfect tour guide in the world. Let me tell you she keeps ride very interesting.
How can people find you?
Instagram: Mz_fancy_1985
Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your journey with us!
