Down Wit Dat: In the News

What You Have to Say About Down Wit Dat:

"Just wanted to let you know how much I admire you. I know you fight a lot of demons, both yours and for others, yet you still maintain that fantastic sense of humor, and more importantly, fairness. You are a constant source of light in the darkness, because you are beautiful inside and out..." - S. R.

"...Wonderfully written and one thing Jen does with her writing is make you stop and think ...and think hard." - J. Toner

"Before I had my little L., I never knew anyone with down syndrome, your page has given me so much hope for my little boy, the people who post pictures of their children and the things that you post are wonderful, its made it easier for me to understand and get used to, thank you, keep doing what your doing with the good work, much appreciation. X." - L. Barnes

"Your post (and the posts of others that you linked to) actually made me tear up a little. Growing up with a brother with Downs, I actually got into fist-fights because of "that word". Hearing it used as a derisive and insulting term by people who should know better (or by those who do know better but are just looking for attention in the case of Coulter) is NEVER ok. Thank you for speaking out." - I. Thomas

"I love these history posts. This is a TON of work on your part, thank you so much!" --N. Haegele

"I don't have any children yet, and I'm not sure how I ended up reading your blog. But it is absolutely inspirational. I'm so glad Wyatt was born into your family where I am sure he can live a happy fulfilled life." --artandtourism

"Above all, Jen is an amazing mother. She is honest and real, and inspires me everyday to love my "typical" child the way he needs to be loved, respect him as a person, and not even for one single second take him, or anything for granted. She allows me to venture into her life, and care about her and her family. What dear little children she has blessed the world with. She is planting seeds, nurturing and growing her family (and extended reader family) into people who will make this world a better place. Why aren't we all more like that?" —Penny

"Jen and her family have an amazing story and mission. Jen's writing reflects the difficult and triumphant steps of life with a special needs child; twins at that, and a older sibling. Thank you for sharing your families' strength with the on-line community."--S.B.

"I think I'm a little bit in love with Jen, and if she lived down the road I might just be a blogging groupie, not because I'm a crazy stalker I hasten to add, but because the easy warmth in which she tells her story convinces you that you are simply having an easy chat with your best friend. She has a subtle wit and craft to her blog posts, they are not just splurges of untamed emotion. This enables her to not only tell her story with honesty and in an enjoyable way, she also manages to impart a message without coming across as patronising or preaching. It's a rare gift for a blog about special needs."— Renata

"Having a child with special needs can be an isolating experience -- even more so when you live half a world away from your friends and family. Due to this, the internet became my primary source of support and camaraderie with other parents in similar situations. I read dozens, if not hundreds, of blogs about being the parent of a child with T21, and though most had positive points, for the most part they just didn't 'speak' to me and what I was feeling. Then came Jen and 'Down Wit Dat'. Suddenly, I heard a voice that was in harmony with the things I was feeling and going through. Her writing is so brutally honest, while at the same time insightful and informative...not to mention FUNNY! If there has been one thing I've learned on this journey, it's the importance of keeping your sense of humour -- even when you seem to be losing your sanity. Thank you so much, Jen, for putting out there the human, REAL side of our special club -- and being a voice for those of us that are so often unheard." — Dee

"I love the honesty, Jen never glosses over the difficulties and never fails to celebrate the victories. My children are not special needs but I can always find commonalities and it has opened my eyes to the fact that people with Down syndrome are not as different from the rest of us as they might initially appear. Since I've known Jen and been reading her blog my attitudes toward respect, and what it means, have changed. "The "r" word" particularly hit home as I had been ignorant to the effects of the use of that word. I do my best to help spread the message."--Susanne

"I have been following this blog for months now. I have nothing but positive thoughts and warm fizzy feelings when reading it. My only regret is not having found this blog when it was originally started. One piece that particularly sticks out to me, was the blog about the "r" word. I don't think I have actually cried so much reading a blog that wasn't about someone dying. I printed it off and shared it with many friends, because Jen is right. She struck a nerve and made me realize that not only myself, but there are many others around me that use that word without realizing how powerful it really is. Down Wit Dat is a blog full of enthusiasm, awareness, whole heartedness, truth, encouragement, laughter, but best of all, its full of Jen, FAMILY, and a look at what having a special needs child is about. Keep writing. You're amazing!" —B. Nason

"I love Jen's take on the special hand that she and her family have been dealt. I especially love that while she shares all her son's small victories she doesn't gloss over the challenges that she and her family face. The best thing I love about Jen and her blog is that she is constant supporter of the rights and challenges of kids and adults with Down Syndrome. She has provide a lot of insight that has opened my eyes and many others. I especially loved her blog about the "r" word. It opened dialogue with my family, friends and groups that I am a part; and I am much more conscientious about the words I used to describe people"--V. Saenz-Brown

"Jen's blog is wonderful! While I do not have a down child, as a mom, I relate to the everyday struggles of just doing your best, of the struggles, the heartaches, the joys of everyday life. Jen writes in a positive and uplifting style with just the right doses of humor thrown. Great read!" —Terra

"This blog is written from the parents perspective, which is important. Jen's story is not unique, but the way she tells it, with humor and honesty is wonderfully refreshing. It brings a real perspective that people can understand and relate to, and is a resource for parents of not just Down Syndrome kids but of all kids to know that life may not be perfect but that everyone has a unique way of dealing with it."—Kimberly

"I too am the mother of a down child. It gives me great giggles, sorrow, and camaraderie to read her blog daily. I find it makes life's little challenges more bearable. She is honest, upfront and a wealth of information. And I think her attitude is one many of us share and embrace. Even if she does not win, she is a huge winner already in my book. Lots of luck and love to her and her amazing family." —L.Grassa

"I love Down Wit Dat because Jen is so honest about her experience as a parent. Jen is not afraid to write about her vulnerability, anger, fear, joy, or love. She's an amazing writer! Jen's description of her blog is so bang on! I laugh and I cry, sometimes simultaneously."—Marla

"I am currently a Disability Services major in college and for my one class we had to find a blog by a parent who has a child with a disability to follow and discuss with the class every week. I have been following your blog for a couple weeks now and I get so excited to talk about little Wyatt and what an amazing family he has and the struggles and victories that you all over come daily! Someday down the road I hope to have children and if I am granted a special needs child I can only hope that I can handle everything that comes my way as positive and good as you do! You are doing an amazing job and are a great mother! Thank you so much for sharing your story!"--Anonymous

"Your blog is incredibly inspiring. I have laughed out loud, been in tears, and everything in between! it's fabulous." -HDSSG

"If you haven't been told today... you're awesome." - Trevor

"Wyatt is fortunate to have such a mom." - Anonymous

"...Thanks for your honesty and insightful points. It helps put our own thoughts into words to pass on when we encounter the same situations." - P

"I am enjoying reading your blog. I taught preschool/education for about 35 yrs and most of it was spent in CA where there is encouraged mainstreaming. I enjoyed having special needs kids...they bring a special and fun element into the classroom! I also had a young man with Downs who was my class helper at one time...he was so much fun! I wish people knew these things....as there are preconceived ideas..." - Jenny

"I remember speaking with you when you found out about the possibility of one of the babies having some abnormalities, and you did not know how you would handle it. My response was, once the situation arises you will find ways to deal with it. I must say, you have done so well with your children, especially with Wyatt. You are not ashamed to embraced what God has blessed you with, and to share your new found info with others who might be less fortunate, and to those who might be less accepting. I am sure you have empowered many people who are in the same situation and need a little love and support. You've turned negatives into positives. I must say you are an awesome mom. Keep up the good work, it not going unnoticed." - K. Garwood

"... I just started reading from the beginning... I am intrigued. It is so incredibly well written with so much love. There were parts I would start to cry. I felt your sadness and your happiness and your passion. These children are so lucky to have you as their mother. I can't wait to read the rest of it and get caught up!!! Thank you so much for sharing your life with us! ?" - M. Laine

"Just had a few minutes to read more of the blog and I must say I LOVE it! I could not agree more that so much of the info I found as a new mom was SO depressing. I didn't jump for joy with the dex of T21 but it wasn't anything I could change so we accepted -and started to read everything we could get our hands on. Can't wait to read more..." - E. Chesnut

"I love, love LOVE your blog. Thank you for sharing your journey." - S. Wing

"I wanted to say I love your blog. You write so honestly... Thank you for writing so candidly." - M. Antushevich

"Found your page completely randomly while trying to connect with other wine blogs like myself. I do not have any kids or know anyone with Down Syndrome but your blog really captivated me. I guess that is how good it is. Keep up the good work :) " - The Frugal Tasters

"There are going to be many times when i say how courageous you are! I do not think it can be said enough, you take YOUR time to educate and inform and rid parents of their fears! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU . I wish my kids were old enough to read and understand! Hopefully one day the maturity level will be there so they can and come to appreciate life more not for the big things but for the everyday moments that will mean more than the big ones EVER will! ?" - C. Cochran

"I, too have a son name Wyatt who happens to have an extra 21st! He was born 2/15/11! Thanks for sharing your story. We're in good company : ). " - R. Scheerer

"My daughter will be 8 in Nov. Unfortunately, my parents I felt were ashamed of my daughter. If only they had gotten to know her before they passed on....." - A. Welsh

"I always enjoy your straight forward, tell it like it is posts. People need this information. They need to know how their ignorant, or often well intentioned but uninformed, words and actions are frustrating, annoying and/or hurtful." - Shayna

AUDIO	indicates an audio clip
APPEAL	indicates an online petition or plea
BLOG	indicates a blog post
EVENT	indicates a scheduled event
LINKS	indicates links or resource materials
PHOTOS	indicates photos
STUDY	indicates a study
THREAD	indicates an online discussion thread
VIDEO	indicates a video

BLOG	The weirdness of being told that the death alternative is the one I should consider. Read more here: http://www.islandpacket.com/2012/12/01/2295922/beaufort-teen-with-down-syndrome.html#storylink=cpy
BLOG	Support flows for woman with Down syndrome mocked by radio DJ - See more at: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2013/01/31/support-flows-for-woman-mocked-by-radio-dj.html#sthash.ZV10BbV0.dpuf Attitudes about Disability Prove Almost Lethal Support flows for woman with Down syndrome mocked by radio DJ - See more at: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2013/01/31/support-flows-for-woman-mocked-by-radio-dj.html#sthash.ZV10BbV0.dpuf Support flows for woman with Down syndrome mocked by radio DJ - See more at: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2013/01/31/support-flows-for-woman-mocked-by-radio-dj.html#sthash.ZV10BbV0.dpuf Support flows for woman with Down syndrome mocked by radio DJ - See more at: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2013/01/31/support-flows-for-woman-mocked-by-radio-dj.html#sthash.ZV10BbV0.dpuf
BLOG	I Want to Write About Something Else
BLOG	Ask the FBI What is Going on in the Frederick County Sheriff (Day 2 of “8 Days for Ethan”)
VIDEO	Down Syndrome Cognition Research 101: An Introduction
BLOG	Cutting Our Teeth on a Paradigm Shift –
BLOG	Antidote
BLOG	Questionable Parenting (this post is funny) –
BLOG	Ask the FBI What is Going on in the Frederick County Sheriff (Day 2 of “8 Days for Ethan”)
BLOG	Public Awareness and a Redress of Grievances (Day 3 of “8 Days for Ethan”)
VIDEO	Teen Couple Humiliated After Movie Date Ruined At Marlton, NJ Theater
APPEAL	Direct the DOJ & FBI to investigate whether civil rights violations & police brutality led to the death of Ethan Saylor.
BLOG	Faith like a mustard seed (Day 4 of “8 Days for Ethan”)
EVENT	Annual Inclusion Awards
	Outlawing Abortion Won’t Help Children with Down Syndrome
	Cynthia Wachenheim and the Impossible Terrain of Motherhood
BLOG	This is my daughter, this is my son
BLOG	Let’s get some National Advocacy (Day 5 of “8 Days for Ethan”).
	A Generational Shift in Understanding Life With Down Syndrome
BLOG	Yes! I Will Continue To Talk About Justice for Ethan!
BLOG	Knoxville News (WVLT) Responds!!!!
BLOG	Who will speak for Ethan Saylor?
EVENT	Online Vigil for Ethan Saylor
LINKS	Sunday Blogaround - 4.7.13
BLOG	Why I can’t let it go: #JusticeForEthan
LINKS	42 Great Down Syndrome Resources You Should Know About
BLOG	Mom, I Hate Having Down syndrome
BLOG	Acceptance vs. Awareness
BLOG	Bless Her Heart
BLOG	Undiagnosed Children’s Awareness Day 2013
BLOG	Fair and Equal Treatment for People who have Down syndrome
BLOG	The Winners of the 2013 SWAN UK Blog Post Awards
	Jenny Hatch gets new attorney
	Deputies back on duty after Saylor death investigation
	Inclusive Schooling: Are We There Yet?
VIDEO	3-year-old left alone on school bus for 4 hours
EVENT	Canadian Down Syndrome Conference
BLOG	A Game-Changing Treatment for ADHD I Married a Pygmy – A Game-Changing Treatment for ADHD
BLOG	Taste: It’s In Your Ear
LINKS	Boomerang Health
	The death of Robert Saylor highlights the problem of prejudice against those with Down syndrome
	Deputy-involved deaths raise questions about internal investigations
BLOG	The Power of Words: It’s Our Responsibility To Stand Up For Respect
BLOG	Sometimes I cringe: Leaning into my discomfort
	Penny Loker's CNN Email Makes Ontario Woman A Viral Star
	More than 1,200 people with a learning disability die of avoidable causes
BLOG	Open Letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder and Maryland Attorney General Doug Gansler
	Doc: Kremer's 'Next' should be respect, inclusion, acceptance
BLOG	Open Letter to NDSS and NDSC
BLOG	The special education that we really need…
BLOG	Oral Aversion and Feeding Challenges
LINKS	Supporting the development of speech skills with See and Learn
BLOG	Paul has graduated from Columbia College!
LINKS	DS Research 101: Part 2
BLOG	Green Tea Extract: EGCG & The Benefits It Has for Down Syndrome
	Parental Protection
BLOG	What If
BLOG	Try the Ethan Experiment
VIDEO	Meet Seb White, the little boy with Down's Syndrome who has made history.
VIDEO	Dr. Temple Grandin: Sensory Issues and Sensitivity
	Robert Saylor: Down syndrome groups seek probe of Md. death
	National Down syndrome advocates press for independent inquiry into Md. man’s custody death
BLOG	Concerned parent writes NDSS and NDSC
BLOG	For Ashley, And Those Like Her
BLOG	Beauty Standards & Disability
	The Pioneer Woman –
APPEAL	Attorney General of Maryland, Doug Gansler: Launch an independent inquiry into the death of Robert Ethan Saylor
	Mute autistic boy, 7, makes teacher abuse claim via drawings
EVENT	Mother's Day
BLOG	Don't use the word, it's just mean! End the use of the r-word NOW!
	Down Syndrome dolls get mixed reviews
BLOG	Independence, Money, and Human Worth
BLOG	I do not understand: Who Qualifies for Civil Rights?
	Disabled students face dangerous discipline in Minnesota
	How prone restraint works
	“Didn’t you get tested?”
VIDEO	KOVASIKAJUTTU (Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät)
	Parents of man who died in police cell criticise son's treatment
BLOG	Jude Is a Punk
	What Does Your Family Need?
VIDEO	Living the Dream - Inclusive Post-Secondary Education
	Couple Sues After Photo of Their Son With Down Syndrome Is Altered
VIDEO	Ohio girl, 8, gets kidney donation from teacher
VIDEO	WATCH: The Incredible Power Of a Single Pair Of Glasses
	Meet Jeanne and Charles (25 years together)
BLOG	Down Syndrome Uprising's Advocacy Blog Symposium
	Josh draws a blank with job hunting
	Killed by the law, and no one protests

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

In the News - April 2013

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