I had a huge grin the entire time I watched this video. It turns out this young man has a website/blog and is making a documentary with his brother. As I read through some of the information on Dan’s web site it turns out he must be local to us because he attended a valentines dance at my son’s school. Small world!
From the web site:
“Strong Love is the story of world-class weight lifter Jon Shapiro and his childhood sweetheart Holly James, both of whom were born with Down syndrome. This documentary follows the couple over the course of three years, starting with their decision to get married. Their challenges, their triumphs, and their complex, sometimes surprising relationships with family and friends are at the heart of this inspiring film.”
This is a tough subject to address. But the film handles issues of sexuality, committed relationships and independence well. I guess it would be more appropriate to say the the families and friends, as well as Jon and Holly, handle it well. The movie is only providing us with a window in to their lives.
I was touched by this story and would recommend this film to anyone.
What did my son think? Well, quite frankly at 16 if it does not involve Ultimate Fighting or WWE he does not watch! He does have a special girl in his life though who would probably watch so maybe they will enjoy the movie together some time.
I was in the office of a social worker recently helping them get setup on Skype and a USB headset. When they put the headset on they said, “I’m going to look like such a retard”.
I was shocked to hear this coming from a licensed social worker and felt my emotions starting to boil. I wanted to call them on it. I wanted to tell them;
as a parent of child with down syndrome I found it insulting.
as a person I was perturbed and immediately thought less of them.
as a co-worker I was disappointed to hear them say that.
But …. I kept quiet.
Here we had an experienced social worker, working for an agency that supports families, children and persons with disabilities. Someone who I would expect would have some sensitivty to a word that is commonly used as an insult. “Retard” or “retarded” is commonly used as an insult in everyday life and in the media, especially among teens and young adults…. and it’s not OK. It hurts and it’s mean.
But … I kept quiet.
My silence helps sustain and perpetuate the negative stereotypes. I make a promise not to let that happen again. No more turning the other cheek. I will take advantage of these situations to voice my opinion and hopefully teach someone that it’s NOT OK.
Several months ago Matt our dear son, celebrated his fifteen birthday. My husband and I thought long and hard about what to get him for a present. We decided to get him a puppy a puggle. For the most part Molly the puggle has been a great addition to the family. Matt seems to really enjoy his puppy. He is beginning to take more responsibility for her each day, taking her out, picking up her toys, etc. It seems to be helping his social and communication skills.
There are times when the puppy’s endless energy mixed with my teenage son’s energy gets a bit overwhelming. However, all and all I would recoomend the experience.
