Bermuda Parent Bermuda Parent Spring 2016 | Page 26

Real Families, Real Stories BY ALICIA RESNIK BY ALICIA RESNIK MORE ALIKE THAN Different When I found out I was carrying a child with Down Syndrome it was a heartbreaking moment. I was scared and did not know what to expect. I immediately started to google information about Down Syndrome and read other parents stories some were frightening while others were just a joy to read and very touching. There were many times that I felt overwhelmed, but I would always pull myself together and start to look for the resources that would help me in preparation for my son. Unfortunately, there were no resources on island. So, I began to make contact and build relationships with overseas’ organizations. They provided pam- phlets to read to help me understand what I was feeling emotionally as well as to be prepared physically, once my son was born. This inspired me to want to start a support group shortly after the birth of my son. In March 2008, my son fell ill and we were flown out to Boston Children’s Hos- pital. While he was being examined by several doctors for his pre operation ap- pointment, my son’s condi- tion worsened before my eyes. His complexion grew pale and his lips were blue, as soon as I bought this to the nurse’s attention he was immediately rushed to the ER. They performed an Echo Ultrasound of his heart and discovered that 24 he would have to have open heart surgery to repair the valves in his heart. Once the team of doctors met, they decided to continue with the planned surgery and then perform the open heart surgery days after. I found out then that it is very common for chil- dren with down syndrome to suffer with varying condi- tions such as this. Trudell, my son, has had several more surgeries since then but is doing great now. He is quite the character and is loved by all who meet him at school and at church. Trudell loves animals and has a passion for babies. He bowls on Saturdays at War- wick Lanes, and enjoys football and cricket. The most important thing that I love about Trudell, is that he enjoys life to the fullest. Having a child with down syndrome is certainly not always easy but I encourage my son to be “MORE ALIKE THAN DIFFERENT”. If anyone is interested in joining our support group or looking for resources contact me via email [email protected] or call 500-6169. We meet once a month on Wednesday’s at Vernon Temple Church 6:15-7:30pm. For 2016, our theme is “My Friends, My Community” - The benefits of inclusive environments for today’s children and tomorrow’s adults http://www.worlddownsyndromeday. org/wdsd-2016.