I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out to share the deep emotions I’ve been grappling with since the announcement of your presidency. Like many others in this diverse nation, I have shed tears over the future of our children, especially those with special needs. My heart is heavy, and I feel compelled to understand your plans regarding critical issues that directly impact my child’s life.
At 26 weeks pregnant, my world shifted when we discovered that our daughter would be born with a congenital heart defect. By 28 weeks, we learned she would also have Trisomy 21, often referred to as Down syndrome, a genetic condition that brings with it various health challenges. I’m writing not just for myself but for the countless parents who share my fears.
In the days following our daughter’s diagnosis, my greatest worry became how society would perceive and treat her. The sting of derogatory remarks and the subtle forms of ableism became all too real. When I heard allegations that you mocked a reporter with a disability, I initially gave you the benefit of the doubt. However, the defense offered for your actions felt reminiscent of the cruel behaviors I witnessed in school when peers mocked those with disabilities. That realization is unsettling.
As our leader, I urge you to listen to the voices of the disability community. Your actions have consequences, and they can embolden others to marginalize those who are already vulnerable. An apology would show understanding and empathy, and I hope you consider that.
It seems you may not have personal connections with individuals with Down syndrome, or you might have recognized the importance of disability rights in your campaign. I want you to know that having a daughter with Down syndrome has enriched my life immeasurably. The individuals I’ve met through this community inspire me daily with their resilience. My daughter, now two, is already making meaningful contributions to her community. We do not seek pity; we seek acknowledgment that people with Down syndrome are living full lives.
Imagine having to defend the worth of your loved ones in the same way I must advocate for my daughter. While I won’t delve into the statistics surrounding the termination of pregnancies due to Down syndrome, I assume you wouldn’t advocate for that, given your views on abortion. You believe that every child deserves the right to be born, which leads me to ask how you plan to protect my daughter as she grows.
I have several questions I hope you will address:
- With your intention to repeal the Affordable Care Act, what will replace it? My daughter has a congenital heart defect and requires ongoing medical care. The fear of losing coverage due to a pre-existing condition is daunting. We currently contribute to the economy, but without adequate healthcare, we could face financial ruin.
- You’ve mentioned that large employers should be responsible for supporting our citizens. What if my daughter can’t secure traditional employment? It’s vital to have a safety net for those who may not fit into conventional work scenarios. How do you plan to ensure that people with disabilities are supported rather than left behind?
- Lastly, do you value the dignity and worth of individuals with disabilities, even those who may not fit traditional beauty standards? We’ve established that my daughter has a right to life, but I need to know if you believe she deserves respect and dignity as she navigates this world.
While I remain hopeful, I still weep for the uncertainties that lie ahead. The silence surrounding disability rights is disheartening, but I trust that bringing these issues to light may foster change. I encourage you to remember that anyone can become part of the disability community at any time.
Parents of children with special needs are fierce advocates, and we come from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Our love for our children unites us as we move forward. I may not have been politically active before, but I am now more committed than ever to ask questions, listen, and advocate for change.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to voice my concerns.
In summary, I hope this letter serves as a bridge for understanding between your administration and families like mine. The future of our children, especially those with special needs, depends on leadership that listens and acts with compassion.
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