If you feel the Lord is calling you to adopt a child with Down syndrome, YOU COULD DO THIS!
I am not trying to minimize the responsibility and magnitude of adopting a child with special needs. I understand it is a huge decision that requires much prayerful consideration and thought. I know that because we went through the decision twice :)
We put a lot of thought into the matter.
What I want to offer is a list of resources that I feel are very important to have access to in order to help you with parenting a child with special needs. Sometimes good practical advice is as important as the deep spiritual advice and insight you need in making this decision.
Here are some resources that have been life-savers for us:
1. Great family and friend support.
2. Great community support: church, playgroups, Facebook groups, etc.
3. Great pediatrician who is knowledgeable and comfortable about Down syndrome.
4. Great Birth to 3 Program through your county.
5. Great Children's Hospital close by (ours is 45 minutes away).
6. Great school system that is knowledgeable and comfortable about Down syndrome.
7. Great Down Syndrome association. Ours is the Down Syndrome Association of WI (DSAW). They offer education, advice, and even financial assistance for respite care etc.
8. Great County programs that offer financial assistance for programs such as therapeutic horse riding, bike riding lessons, etc.
If you have these 8 resources, that is an amazing support basis for parenting a child with Down syndrome! In other words, YOU CAN DO THIS!
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