This is my letter to the editor. I write one each year for Down syndrome Awareness month.

Although our son will always be 15, Sammy would have celebrated his 17th birthday this October 11th. Sammy was born with Down syndrome and at the time of his birth our family had no idea what a gift we had just received! Sammy, as well as so many individuals with Down syndrome, gave to us so much more that we could ever have given to him. He was our teacher all of his life. We all need to take time to learn from all individuals with Down syndrome. For 15 years, 2 months, 21 days, our family was loved unconditionally. Sammy didn’t judge us. He didn’t care if we were millionaires or paupers. He was happy sitting at the kitchen counter with us as much as going out on the town. He gave us great joy and gifts of himself each day. This month is Down syndrome awareness month and we all need to be aware that having a friend or family member with Down syndrome is a gift that we need to appreciate and embrace. The world is a better place because of individuals with Down syndrome and I would also like to think that I am a better person because of Sammy. Those of you who knew Sammy, my hope is that you learned from him and remember him with a smile. Those of you who didn’t know him my hope is that you will someday meet and get to know an individual with Down syndrome. You will be forever blessed with a gift of love and an amazing friendship.

It doesn't get easier. You just get better at it. God is good!