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
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| Me when I was a little guy |
