Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Let Me Introduce Myself

My name is Patrick and I'm a pretty special guy. 

Probably the first thing that people notice about me is that I have Down syndrome.  It doesn't define me, it's just something I have.  I don't suffer from it, I thrive with it.  I have also been diagnosed as being legally deaf, since the bones in my ears didn't develop normally.  Much to my family's and doctor's surprises, I read lips as I grew up (I wasn't diagnosed as being deaf until I was a teen).  My speech is okay, but the deafness doesn't help - however, I have been known to say some very funny things.

The most important things you should know about me is that I have a mom and dad, a brother, a sister, a sister-in-law, two nieces, and a huge family.  I am a person.  I am loved, and I give love.  I can be hurt, but I don't hurt others.  I am different, but not less.

I am 33 years old and was born on April Fools Day.  So, that means I'll be 34 very soon.  So, in honor of my upcomiong birthday, here is a list of my favorite things:
  • Birthdays, of course.  I celebrate weeks...even months in advance
  • Hot rods - my Dad has a '32 roadster
  • Cooking class at ARC
  • Working at my job
  • My border collie, Deuce
  • Anything having to do with Hawaii - which I call "Aloha"
  • Taking lots and lots of photos
  • Being independent as much as possible

Me when I was a little guy


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