Today marks the first day of Down Syndrome Awareness month- and for my family, today is a day full of celebration. I have a sister with downs and she delights in the fact that there is a WHOLE month set aside each year to recognize HER (and boy does she milk it)! But, if we’re being completely honest, she deserves to be celebrated all year long…here’s why:

She makes our lives a lot happier

She exudes pure joy

She forgives without a fault

She only sees the good in those around her

She couldn’t tell a lie if she tried

She claims her love language is “helping others”- is that even possible???

She gives the world’s best hugs

She never meets a stranger

She has great taste in music- the Backstreet Boys never disappoint

She cares genuinely

She will cackle at the slightest jokes

She loves unconditionally and innocently

She is wise beyond compare

She is unapologetically honest

She is kind

She is consistent

She is funny

She brings brightness to every situation without trying

She is a daily reminder to love others fiercely

To know her is to love her. And to love her is a complete privilege. I encourage you to be aware, this month specifically, that kids with down syndrome are no different than you or I- my sister’s “occasional” sassy attitude stands proof of that. But to say my life would be drastically empty without her would be an understatement. In my opinion, Down Syndrome “awareness” month should look a lot more like “admiration” month- she’s special in more ways than one, and I praise God for her extra chromosome and for those who are just like her!!!