March

March is an important month for me and those with Down syndrome.  I'll first get to why it's important to me.  March is the month for Saint Patrick's Day - which has my name in it, so it's totally MY day!  Plus I'm Catholic and the saints are completely cool - especially Saint Patrick.  So, if you're reading this, please wish me a Happy Saint Patrick's Day (even though I'm Portuguese/Ukrainian :)  ).

But, March is important to those of us with Down syndrome because the 7th is dedicated to ending the "r" word.  To me, my family, and my friends it is a completely hurtful word.  It infers that those of us with daily challenges are less than human.  It infers that we are different, and therefore less.  I am none of those things.  Even if it's being said as a joke to someone who is considered "normal" it carries the same hurt.  It is a sad and stupid word used only by sad and uneducated people.  So, join the pledge to stop using it by clicking on the link to the right.  To be clear, I am special.  I am loved.  I am a photographer.  I'm a dog owner.  I have even gone to college.  The "r" word should change to be "respect".  Word.

The other important day in March is the 21st.  Get it?  March 21st is 3/21 - or trisomy 21!  (http://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/ ).  As the signs say, "I rock my 21st chromosome".  And I do!  I make the most of my 21st chromosome.  I think my parents are still surprised at the places I go and how many people say "Hey Patrick"!  I am popular.  It must be my good looks.

Anyhow, that's why March is important.  Show your support.  Just sayin'.