My Son Explains His Sister's Down syndrome-Again!

For the past couple of years, I have had my son answer some simple questions about Down syndrome and his sister. Elijah's life has always involved his sister with Down syndrome. It has been his norm for 8 years. He has grown up attending Down syndrome walks, doctor's appointments, and other events like Special Olympics. His childhood has been much different than mine.

Some of these questions are hard for Elijah because he truly doesn't see the differences. He just accepts his sister for who she is and nothing else. Here's his responses:

What is Down syndrome?
It's when you have an extra chromosome. You can't get rid of it.


What are some problems that Jaycee has?
Communicating and talking! Spelling is a big problem for her. So is writing too!


Jaycee has obstructive sleep apnea. What is sleep apnea?
It's when you have a problem when you are sleeping. Jaycee wears a bi-pap for it.


What do you think is something that is hard for Jaycee to do?
School work and home work are hard for her. She's doing easier things than I am, and she's older.


What is your sister really good at?
She is good at eating. Her teeth were pulled out, and she still ate! She's also good at sign language. Jaycee is good at cooking pizzas.


Is it hard having a sister with Down syndrome? Why?
Yes! It's hard to take care of the stuff she needs. Her bi-pap, vest, nebulizer, puffs (our word for inhalers) are all hard. It's a lot of stuff to do.

For the record, my husband and I do these things, but I guess it mentally wears him out. Ha! These things are all related to her lung problems and not Down syndrome. 


What do you think other kids should know about Down syndrome?
It can be hard to take care of people with Down syndrome. But, Jaycee is really nice. I would want other kids to try to be Jaycee's friend.


Want to go back to our other interviews??
Here are Elijah's answers in 2015 (age 6)

And here they are from last year (age 7)