One out of 689 babies are born with Down Syndrome, making it the most common genetic gene. Trisomy 21 is the another name for it, which basically results in an extra pair of chromosomes. Aside from that, I learned that on January 13, 2010 that I would have a baby cousin who would have Down Syndrome. Not knowing exactly what Down Syndrome was, I was told that he would have special needs, and would generally be a little bit of a slow learner, which is common. But knowing that this little man was a part of my family, we believed he could succeed to great heights with our family support.

James Michael Leveille, or "Bubba" as we call him a lot, is the youngest of seven kids (five sisters, one brother). James is easily the most adored or payed attention too if you want to put it that way, in our family by a long shot. Why, you ask? James brings light into our lives, he's such a happy kid that you have to smile when you are around him. Not one single day do we ever judge him for having Down Syndrome, that thought just doesn't even come into my mind. I have never met an individual who could teach me a lot more about life than James.

Being around him for even five minutes instantly brightens my day. For a child who is six years old, I wasn't exactly sure what he would accomplish with Down Syndrome, because I had never encountered someone who had it. James amazed me by knowing his colors, the alphabet, how to use manners properly (probably even better than me). A lot of people seem to doubt people with Down Syndrome, but really in their own ways, they are some of the smartest people I have ever met. James actually moved out of a special classroom setting and started regular first grade this year! This was a huge step for him, even though having Down Syndrome kids in a normal classroom is becoming a positive trend.

Now, if there's one thing James has truly taught me, it's unconditional love. Never have I seen a six-year-old display so much happiness, so much joy, that it spreads all around the room. He's had his moments, but overall, James warms the hearts of so many people who care about him and love him no matter what. The way he interacts with his sisters via their snapchats that I receive all of the time is heart warming, as he is such a goofy kid, making silly faces and he certainly loves the snapchat filters.

Bubba loves sports, he participates in a miracle baseball league near his hometown in Carol Stream, Illinois. He also participated in a recreational league soccer, where he actually broke his glasses (don't worry he walked it off). Not only has this kid endured enough health problems throughout his early life, this kid took on DOUBLE-KNEE surgery. Yes, you heard that right. I complained about a concussion my sophomore year of high school, but this is a billion times worse, and I didn't see this tough kid complain once. James probably didn't really realize he had double-knee surgery, and couldn't walk much for a while, but there wasn't a day where he was worried, or just continued on with his joy-filled life that everyone adores.

James, I love you with all of my heart, thank you for being a part of the Crotty family, and I cannot wait to be your coach for the Special Olympics one day!