Down Syndrome Awareness & PICU

Almost that time of year again... WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY!

Each year on the 21st of March we celebrate this day.

People with Down Syndrome have an extra chromosome, instead of the typical 2 copies, people with Down Syndrome have 3 copies of Chromosome 21 - hence 21/3 = 21st March!

This year we are doing our bit to raise awareness and raise money for the amazing charity Positive About Down Syndrome and also for the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

PADS is an absolutely invaluable resource for families of children with DS. This charity supports families and their children during pregnancy, early years, throughout nursery, school and beyond.

The charity works so hard to challenge outdated stereotypes and discriminations around DS which affect people with DS every day.

PADS have helped support Ted in so many ways;

From physio support to providing communication training to his grandparents, to giving support and advice on different medical issues which have arisen over the years.

Also this year we are raising money for PICU.

This unit has saved our boy's life on more than one occasion. We will never be able to thank the staff enough for everything they have done for him over the years but especially over the 4 weeks Ted stayed there at the beginning of the year.

The unit is filled with World-class expertise, helping the sickest babies and children in the Country.

The staff in PICU constantly go above and beyond to care for the children but also support their families.

This year on Sunday 19th March several challenges will be undertaken at AFITGLASGOW including 3 x Half-Marathons by Gerry (21Km Ski/Row, 21Km bike and 21Km run) and a combined half marathon by Ross (3km Ski, 3km Row, 15Km run).

For those of a lesser athletic ability (me!) a buggy/fun walk will be happening at the same time... leaving the gym, heading to Glasgow Green and back. Kiddies on bikes and scooters would be more than welcome to join too.

Please let me know if you'd like to join in either the walk or any of the gym challenges.

This year, like every year since Ted was born we personally celebrate how lucky we are to have him as part of our family and how lucky we are to spend every day with this little guy.

I feel like Ted single-handedly defies many preconceptions about children with disabilities.

There are no words to describe how much he lights up our lives. He is so loved and so valued.

Ted is hands down the strongest and bravest person I know. He has changed our lives for the better and given us a unique perspective on life.

I personally wish I was more like our Son in many ways.

We are unbelievably proud of our wee Super Ted always but especially after all he has overcome over the past couple of months.

Lets Go Team Ted!!

Hannah Ballantyne