I'm Ava's mum, when we found out our little Ava had an extra shiney chromosome, I can't lie I was crushed and it felt like my world had been turned upside down but why?. I'll tell you why, because of society and how we are made to think anyone with a disability is any less or isnt equal. I felt everyone would judge, talk or pity us!
I soon processed the news and remembered Ava is Ava and having a diagnosis will NOT define her! Luckily for us, we have an amazing support network around her who will be her cheerleaders at every opportunity.

The next stage of the process was loneliness, I felt that no one understood fully the thoughts in my head .... would she have medical needs? is this "normal" for children with Down syndrome? Should I be feeling this way? I didn't know anything about Down Syndrome!!

It was then I found DSUK PADS - Positive About Down Syndrome on Facebook and instantly I found that there was a massive community of parents who were welcoming and happy to share their experiences. The lonely place I was in wasn't such a lonely place anymore.

All of the above is the reason Myself and my close friend Siobhan are taking part in a 25km Trek in September in honour of our Extra Sparkly little Ava, who I tell you is certainly NO Less.
We will be raising money for PADS so they can continue to support parents, educate society and spread awareness that having Down Syndrome isn't a negative, it isn't something to feel sorry about or be ashamed of, our children are just as amazing as any other!

Just to finish on a little bit about us, if you know us you know we're not big walkers, joggers or a runnersha! We'd sooner jump in the car however, you will know we are VERY PASSIONATE about my Ava and We WILL do this trek for her as hard as it may be.

We really hope you support us in raising money for something that helped me and continues to be a life line at times and I'm sure is the same for others ✌ we Thank you in advance!



More information about DSUK Positive about Down syndrome: Positive about Down syndrome provides resources to maternity units for new & expectant parents to understand reality of Down syndrome today. Our website is written by young people with Down syndrome and parents for new & expectant parents. We also provide counselling, peer support and training to ensure new & expectant parents receive the information & support they deserve.