Hey there, sweetie,
I remember when your dad called me to share the news about your brother having Down syndrome. Honestly, my heart just stopped for a moment. I dropped the phone and collapsed on the floor. The first thing that slipped out was, “Oh no, this can’t be real, this can’t be real.” Then I started worrying about you, my precious little one.
For 16 months, you were my entire universe. I genuinely treasured our time together—well, maybe not the teething nights! I soaked in all the little moments: the giggles, our peek-a-boo games, and reading the same books on repeat. But when I learned about your brother’s diagnosis, my mind raced to the future instead of soaking in the present.
I found myself thinking about middle school and worrying about how others might treat you because of him. What if kids teased you? What if I got overwhelmed by his needs and forgot about yours? I was so consumed with the fear that I didn’t see the beautiful opportunities this diagnosis could bring for you.
Did you know that 97% of kids with a sibling who has Down syndrome feel proud of them? And 88% believe their sibling makes them a better person? That’s my hope for you, kiddo.
When you see your brother working hard to achieve things that come easily to you, I hope it teaches you humility. When you might feel the urge to judge someone for their looks, I hope you think of your brother and how he will be judged. And when life throws those little annoyances your way, I hope gratitude fills your heart instead of complaints.
I believe you two will learn to appreciate life together—finding joy in the little things and living with a grateful heart. You’ll teach each other love in its purest form.
You might mature faster than your friends, and honestly, I think that’s a good thing. Your brother can show you what truly matters in life, like kindness and compassion. You’ll see that there’s a whole world out there that needs your love and attention beyond just school.
So, I’m not sorry your brother has Down syndrome. I’ve come to realize it’s not unfair. In fact, I believe you have a unique advantage because of him. You’ll understand that popularity and material things don’t define you. What truly matters is how we love others—everyone.
Galatians 5:6 reminds us, “…the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”
Love always,
Mom
P.S. Your brother is incredibly lucky to have you as his sister. I know you’ll be an amazing teacher, protector, and friend to him. He’s going to learn so much from you, just like you will from him.
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In summary, this letter to my daughter expresses the journey of processing her brother’s Down syndrome diagnosis while highlighting the positive lessons and growth opportunities that will come from it. The letter embraces love, gratitude, and the importance of seeing beyond superficial concerns.