Blog For Down Syndrome

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 obtained my copy from the creators web site http://www.bonnieburt.com/movies/strong-love.html . I received a response from Bonnie Burt within an hour of placing the order which was nice personal touch. The movie arrived within 3 days of the order.
You can also watch a preview clip on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLFhP5olHvE

EDIT: I received a note this morning from the films creator, Bonnie Burt that Strong Love has some screening dates:

“I’m going to look like such a retard”.

I kept quiet.

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;

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.

I WILL NOT BE QUIET ANY LONGER!