The third study evaluated survey responses from 284 people with Down syndrome (estimated response rate, 17 percent). The average age was 23, and 84 percent were living with one or both parents/guardians. The findings:
- 99 percent said they were happy with their lives
- 97 percent liked who they are
- 96 percent liked how they look
- 86 percent indicated they could make friends
easily
- 4 percent expressed sadness about their life.
You can read through the findings in full entirety here but the bottom line is that the "Down syndrome experience" is an overwhelmingly positive one for everyone involved - ESPECIALLY for the individuals with Down syndrome!
I challenge you to find any survey of any population of typically developing individuals that reports such astounding happiness and confidence results.
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And as for the small percentages of parents and siblings that expressed embarrassment and regret, well, I wonder what that percentage would be if parents and siblings were polled about typically developing family members. I bet the propensity for negative feelings would be even greater.
There are always small segments of the population that will express discontent at any circumstance; You know, the "glass half full/poor me/life's not fair" people that are impossible to please.
So to the outsiders who associate the term "Down syndrome" with uncertainty and fear, here's what us insiders want you to know: It's a FORTUNATE few whose lives are graced by Down syndrome. This survey affirmed my perspective that these fortunate few emerge happier, prouder, and more enlightened and we are ultimately grateful for this blessing.
Click HERE to visit Confessions of the Chromosomally Enhanced online and to follow their journey.
Josie AKA "Jo-Jo"
The Dual Divas of Down syndrome