Down Wit Dat

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
CASE	indicates a lawsuit or proceedings
EVENT	indicates a scheduled event
IMAGE	indicates a graphic, image or comic
LAWS	indicates a new piece of legislation
LINKS	indicates links or resource materials
PHOTOS	indicates photos
POLL	indicates an online survey
POST	indicates an advocacy statement made through social media
PRESS	indicates a press release
QUOTE	indicates a meaningful quote
STUDY	indicates a study or discovery
THREAD	indicates an online discussion thread
VIDEO	indicates a video or movie clip
VLOG	NEW indicates a video blog post

BLOG	Autism and Psychiatric Diagnoses
	Oldest case of Down's syndrome from medieval France
BLOG	A Brief History of Down Syndrome, Part 2: Before John Langdon Down
IMAGE	Escalation of violence pyramid.
	Rockford Wal-Mart sued after firing intellectually disabled employee
	A 3D Printed Cast That Can Heal Your Bones 40-80% Faster
BLOG	The Battle…
IMAGE	"Image description: Picture of a young woman wearing glasses and standing in what looks..."
IMAGE	Inclusion vs Exclusion
	Toronto woman appalled by futile attempts to find Grade-6 class for wheelchair-bound son
VIDEO	There Is No Excuse for Children With Intellectual Disabilities To Be Educated In Separate Classrooms
IMAGE	"Image of a woman wearing a blue zip up sweat shirt. She is holding two signs..."
POST	“Low functioning is an insult and high functioning is a threat.”
	Bruce Springsteen Reveals Depression - And Gives Us Permission To Talk About It Too
BLOG	Don’t teach kids that their body is wrong
	Amy Purdy Goes Nude for ESPN Body Issue
POST	"Today in Mighty Girl history, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of the Special Olympics..."
BLOG	Asking for Accommodations
BLOG	A Father’s Powerful & Extremely Personal Thoughts on Parenting
	Facebook accused of allowing hate speech
BLOG	My Story: So Much More Than Just a Girl Who Uses a Wheelchair – Embracing Disability as Part of My Identity
	The Sexual Politics of Autism
IMAGE	"Image Description: A darkened photo of a woman's face appears behind a computer..."
	Author of U of T study says dyslexic children should be screened for physical abuse
	"Inspiration Porn" Objectifies People With Disabilities
BLOG	The Poppy Seeds
	Girl With Autism Speaks at City Hall After She Says She Was Caught on Overheated School Bus
	Brains, Genes And Chemical Imbalances – How Explanations Of Mental Illness Affect Stigma
IMAGE	"Image description: A woman, wearing glasses cozily holding her very young son while they..."
POST	"It looks like Netflix is airing the Autism Speaks Documentary "Sounding The Alarm" now..."
IMAGE	"Image description: a young woman with the text, "I am autistic. I am NOT a tragedy..."
IMAGE	"Image Description: Black and white photo of a man, sitting in front of a large body of..."
BLOG	IT HAPPENED TO ME: I Was Wined, Dined And Body-Shamed On A First Date
	In Defense of People Who Need Caregivers: Disability Should Not Erase Dignity
IMAGE	"Image Description: A photo of a man with long hair and beard, wearing a striped button..."
	'Gentle Giant' Dies After NYPD Cop Puts Him In Chokehold
	The Weird, Scary and Ingenious Brain of Maria Bamford
POST	"In their flagship Manhattan store this week, JCPenney unveiled a new collection of "real..."
EVENT	The T21 Blog Hop - July 2014
IMAGE	"Image Description: Back ground is greenish Text reads: I am autistic I do not live..."
	One of Marvel’s Avengers Turns to Sign Language
IMAGE	"Image description: A young man is wearing a hoodie is standing in a grassy field looking..."
	Schizophrenia: Scientists tie over 80 new genes to mental illness
VIDEO	I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much
	The Relationship Between Creativity and Mental Illness
BLOG	The Messiness of Blogging

AUDIO	indicates an audio clip
APPEAL	indicates an online petition or plea
BLOG	indicates a blog post
CASE	indicates a lawsuit or proceedings
EVENT	indicates a scheduled event
IMAGE	indicates a graphic, image or comic
LAWS	indicates a new piece of legislation
LINKS	indicates links or resource materials
PHOTOS	indicates photos
POLL	indicates an online survey
POST	indicates an advocacy statement made through social media
PRESS	indicates a press release
QUOTE	indicates a meaningful quote
STUDY	indicates a study or discovery
THREAD	indicates an online discussion thread
TWEETS	NEW indicates a Twitter Hashtag
VIDEO	indicates a video or movie clip
VLOG	indicates a video blog post

IMAGE	"ac•tiv•ism \ˈak-ti-ˌvi-zəm\ Intentional actions to bring about societal change. Often used..."
	A Point of View: Happiness and disability
	Court throws out 'mental retardation'
IMAGE	"Parody of the PETA "got autism" ad. A bowl of milk with a smiley face made out of cheerios..."
	Why my daughter's birthday shames those who think people with Down's are not fit to live
	Finnish Education Chief: 'We Created a School System Based on Equality'
BLOG	#yesallwomen Includes Women with Disabilities.
POST	MDC Class Action Law Suit in Store?
	CA cop fatally shoots 18-year-old special needs girl after family calls for medical help
	Mother charged in death of daughter, 22, with cerebral palsy who weighed just 40lbs
IMAGE	"There can be no "cure" for Autism, because Autism is not an entity. There are only Autistic..."
	Held down by red tape, not disability
IMAGE	"the diversity of human brains and human minds. The enormous diversity among individual..."
BLOG	TTC driver refuses to let riders in wheelchairs exit bus
TWEETS	#‎StopAbleismBecause‬
	'Sesame Street' Partners With Autism Speaks: Why Are Autistic People Upset?
IMAGE	"help·er /ˈhelpər/Well intentioned person who wishes to assist those they perceive to be.."
POST	"In a thoughtful act of generosity, an officer aboard a private chartered flight that we had..."
	Neighbors find body of disabled girl, 9, in refrigerator at Houston apartment
BLOG	The Ashley Treatment Rears its Ugly Head
BLOG	What Is Autism?
	Woman Indicted In Death Of Disabled 8-Year-Old Daughter In Yonkers
	'Subminimum wage' for disabled workers called exploitative
BLOG	Five Steps Toward Autism Acceptance
BLOG	An Argument Against Pathologizing Autism – What Others Had to Say
BLOG	(Not So) Idle Hands
	'Mommy blogger' accused of killing her 5-year-old son for Internet fame
BLOG	"It's not easy being green, and it's not easy being Autistic when Autism Speaks treats..."
BLOG	A friend of mine.
	Class actions launched against Ont. over 16 facilities for developmentally disabled
	Her Body Type Is So Ignored In The Magazines That We Don’t Even Notice It’s Missing?
EVENT	The T21 Blog Hop - June 2014
VIDEO	Signmark - Fighting
BLOG	S.R. Salas post: “Advocacy In Others’ Words” for T-21 Blog Hop @Down_Wit_Dat
BLOG	Mommy is Mad @SesameWorkshop
BLOG	Don't be a Dick*
BLOG	The Joy of Acceptance
BLOG	Why I Will Never Be an Autistic "Warrior Mom"
IMAGE	"Autism is not what Autism Speaks wants you to believe. They have spread many lies..."
BLOG	Deconstruction by Design: A visual history of the Liberal attack on education
BLOG	The Room
BLOG	GUEST POST - Keep Abortion Politics Out of the Pro-Information Movement
BLOG	Disability: My Connection
BLOG	Toronto exhibit highlights fashion for people using wheelchairs
BLOG	Why My Dad Isn’t a Hero or a Saint: A Father’s Day Tribute
BLOG	Camp Goodwill
	Best Western Hotel Stripped Of Brand Name After Rejecting Boy Who Uses Service Dog
BLOG	The Downside of Assumptions
BLOG	Adult Autism and Program Leadership: Yes, It’s a Big Deal.
APPEAL	Please let Amazon know how offensive this merchandise and the like are
	A Mighty Girl
IMAGE	WOMEN in english!

Thursday, August 21, 2014

The T21 Blog Hop - August 2014

Friday, August 1, 2014

In the News - July 2014

Monday, July 21, 2014

The T21 Blog Hop - July 2014

Sunday, July 6, 2014

In The News - June 2014

About Me

(The Increasingly Inaccurately Named) "A Brief History of Down syndrome" Series

Countdown to Surgery

Surgical Suite

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