If you’ve recently scrolled through your social media and spotted a particularly adorable face, meet Oliver. His infectious smile has taken the internet by storm for a truly heartwarming reason.
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and mom, Sarah Thompson, who runs the blog Life with Oliver, created a touching video honoring her son as part of the #StrongLikeYou series on Jane.com. The video has rapidly gained traction, racking up nearly four million views in just a week!
Oliver, with his charming grin, is undeniably the star of the show. But it’s Sarah’s candid reflections on her journey after discovering her son’s diagnosis that have left viewers reaching for the tissues.
A Journey of Love and Acceptance
Sarah and her husband were over the moon when they learned they were expecting their first child. While Sarah envisioned those sweet mother-son moments, her husband was already dreaming about Little League games. But everything shifted when Oliver arrived. “They asked if we had undergone the quad screen,” (a prenatal test that assesses the likelihood of Down syndrome). “I did,” she recalls. “And the results were standard. Then the nurse said, ‘We think he has Down syndrome.’”
Initially, her first reaction wasn’t concern; it was irritation. “Why are you interrupting us with this? Of course, he doesn’t! That only happens to women in their late 30s,” Sarah thought. However, further testing confirmed that Oliver indeed had an extra chromosome.
“I think he is, honey,” her husband said gently upon receiving the news. “And that’s okay.”
Sarah admits that fear loomed large in her early emotions. “I was so worried I didn’t know what to expect for his health or his future. It’s terrifying for any parent.”
A visit from friends who also had a child with Down syndrome while they were still in the hospital provided some much-needed perspective. “You just hit the jackpot,” they told her.
Soon, Sarah realized they were right. “I don’t want people to pity him. They see the challenges but miss how much joy he brings. Oliver gives the best hugs and has a unique ability to sense people’s emotions and love in a way that’s hard to describe.” She started her blog, Life with Oliver, to document their journey, promote understanding about Down syndrome, and support other parents navigating similar paths.
“There’s nothing ‘down’ about Oliver, his diagnosis, or anyone living with Down syndrome,” she emphasizes.
Resources for Further Reading
For more insights into family planning and home insemination, check out this helpful post on terms and conditions. And if you’re interested in learning more about at-home insemination options, Make a Mom is an excellent resource for guidance.
Summary
Sarah Thompson’s touching tribute to her son Oliver in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month has captured hearts and gone viral, emphasizing love, joy, and acceptance.