The Voice of Down syndrome
When I was born 29 years ago, the doctors told my parents to put me away and forget about me. They said I would not be able to walk, or talk or do what other kids do. They painted a very sad picture of what my life would be like. My parents said I was a gift from God and they would never, ever give me away. I may have taken a little longer to do what others did, but each step was a victory for me and everyone around me. Down syndrome has not stopped me from living a happy and meaningful life! I have done so many things in my life. I graduated from high school; been a CAS volunteer since 2001; hold a Special Olympics record in 25 metre freestyle; play golf, hockey and baseball and was my uncle’s best man just to name a few!
In 2006, I spoke to my aunt about starting up a company to help people like me. I told her there was something more important and special for her to do, and that was to do work helping people like me. My words to her were “You will never be happier and God will be very happy too”. It was a very special moment for us.
Today, I am an official Founding Director of IDEAL-WAY.ca and my aunt and uncle said I earned the title and that I will make a difference in the world. IDEAL began with my entire life savings of $62.05 which I donated. Everybody always tells me that I have a great personality, am smart and can talk really well. I will be the voice for my friends who can not speak. Just because I have problems with money skills, may never get married, won’t be a doctor or lawyer, does not mean that I am not deserving. What I do have is a big heart and lots of love to give. I do not judge people. I have a good memory and will remember a phone number from ten years ago! I will never forget if you do something nice for me. I will forgive you if you called me handicapped or retarded because you didn’t know me.
I am proud of who I am and what I have done.
IDEAL-WAY.ca will educate people about what is possible when you include us, give us love, encouragement and opportunity.
Don’t you think the doctors would be surprised to see me now??
I am so proud and excited to be a Director of IDEAL-WAY.ca and I know that I will make you proud too!
“Keep the faith”,
Rob H.
I so enjoyed reading your wonderful inspiring words Rob. I have a fantastic son who has DS. He is 29 years old and the eldest of my five children. We as a family are blessed to have him in our lives. You are a shining example to all down syndrome children in the world.
God bless xx
Posted on February 19, 2010
I enjoyed reading your story with your moving words and sunny outlook on life. I have a 4 month old son with DS and I too believe that he will be able to achieve anything he puts his mind to. Your story is very encouraging and heart warming and I thank you.
Posted on March 31, 2010
Hey Rob
Really enjoyed your video!!!!
I have a 26 year old son with Down Syndrome and I feel he is a true gift from God to me and my family. Because of him I have a job that I love, I am a special education advocate, I have GREAT friends, and I have always felt the sky was the limit for him. His sky may be different than mine but isn't everyone elses?
He truly is a delight and I thank God everyday for giving me this wonderful gift that has taught me the true meaning of unconditional love and acceptance.
God Bless!!!!!
Posted on June 17, 2010
your story is touching,i have a 3yr old son who is down syndrome,i think he can make it but people think he is nothing especially is father but i love him so much more than anything in the world
Posted on May 21, 2011
Your story is fantastic!! Hugely inspirational. I live in the UK and my second daughter has Down's syndrome. She is 12 months old and I feel very passionately that I need to start changing some really outdated opinions of people with Down's syndrome inthe UK in order to pave a better future for both my girls! I have recently started a website which is meant to provide a positive source of information and inspiration to new parents and I wonder if it would be ok for me to add the link to your website? If you would like to look at my website first to see if its suitable, please go to www.futureofdowns.com
Thanks, Helen
Posted on July 5, 2011
Your story is wonderful and so inspiring. I have an eight year old son with Down syndrome who I think can do anything in life he wants to. I love to hear about others who have done it!
Posted on February 2, 2010