Gifts: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives

Review
Gifts is a poignant and inspirational collection of stories written by mothers of children with Down syndrome. These mothers, each with a unique story, graciously and honestly offer us a glimpse of their journey. Some describe the raw anguish felt upon learning that their child had Down syndrome, their sense of loss and even despair. Many speak of the fierce protection they provide their child in terms of advocacy and education of others, and how they, as mothers, have grown strong and assertive in providing for their children's needs. All talk of unyielding love and admiration for their children and the joy the children have brought to their lives.

Written to help others who are experiencing similar circumstances, Gifts explores relationships between a parent and child, with siblings and with the larger community. It tells of the 'light burning brightly' and 'the tiny hands of comfort' offered by the child with Down syndrome. It shares stories of families who are reveling in the journey that they had once feared.

This book will accompany the reader long after it is placed on the bookshelf. The advice and resources provided will help many, and the theme of determination will inspire all to cheer for those with Down's, as well as their families. A companion volume is in the works offering more stories of love, acceptance and hope.

I thoroughly enjoyed this paperback book. Not often can a book touch one s heart--I found, more than once, a tear in my eye and a smile on my lips. It is a testament to what can be accomplished with love, patience and determination and will be an invaluable resource for anyone associated with the care of individuals with Down syndrome. --ADVANCE for Occupational Therapy Practitioners, July 7, 2008

A beautiful book that provides insight into family life with Down syndrome; recommended for public libraries. --Library Journal Xpress Reviews, June 12, 2007

This fine book helps dispel the fear and misinformation about Down syndrome that many parents and prospective parents face. As these deft essays convey, the world would be a sweeter place with more Down syndrome citizens, not fewer. --George F. Will

GIFTS is a recipient of the prestigious Mom's Choice Award. The Mom's Choice Awards honors excellence in family-friendly media, products, and services. An esteemed panel of judges includes education, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. A sampling of the panel members inlcudes: Dr. Twila C. Liggett, Ten-time Emmy-winner, professor and founder of Reading Rainbow; Julie Aigner-Clark, Creator of Baby Einstein and The Safe Side Project; Jodee Blanco New York Times Best-Selling Author; LeAnn Thieman, Motivational speaker and coauthor of seven Chicken Soup For The Soul books; Tara Paterson, Certified Parent Coach, and founder of the Mom's Choice Awards. Parents and educators look for the Mom's Choice Awards seal in selecting quality materials and products for children and families. This book/product has been honored by this distinguished award. --Mom's Choice Awards
Product Description
(2008 National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA): Gold Award; 2008 Mom's Choice Awards: Silver Recipient, Special & Exceptional Needs; 2008 Nautilus Award: Silver Winner, Memoir/Personal Growth)

Having a baby with Down syndrome is not something most parents would willingly choose. Yet many who travel this path discover rich, unexpected rewards along the way. In this candid and poignant collection of personal stories, sixty-three mothers describe the gifts of respect, strength, delight, perspective, and love, which their child with Down syndrome has brought into their lives. The contributors to this collection have diverse personalities and perspectives, and draw from a wide spectrum of ethnicity, world views, and religious beliefs. Some are parenting within a traditional family structure; some are not. Some never considered terminating their pregnancy; some struggled with the decision. Some were calm at the time of diagnosis; some were traumatized. Some write about their pregnancy and the months after giving birth; some reflect on years of experience with their child. Their diverse experiences point to a common truth: The life of a child with Down syndrome is something to celebrate. These women have something to say--not just to other mothers but to all of us.