World Down Syndrome Awareness Day

3:21. The 21st of March, the third month. Down Syndrome is three copies of the 21st chromosome, which is why today is world Down syndrome awareness day. It's a mystery why October is DS awareness month, when it should be March, right? Quien sabe.
Anyway, the cyber world was talking about an idea for this year to promote awareness and start dialogue: the Lots of Socks campaign. The idea is for everyone to wear colorful socks, or lots of them, or three of them (get it?) and this would create awareness and dialogue etc etc. so in my new job as a parent resource for families with special needs I was talking about this with a coworker who also has a child with DS and she thought it was fun.
Today I have also been on the blogosphere and came across some very good points made by other moms. Basically, enough with this "awareness" stuff, what we need is action to promote respect for people with disabilities. Actively campaign to eradicate the "R" word in everyday slang, support legislation for people with disabilities, etc. Food for thought, eh? So next time I want to incorporate some action into the awareness. I learn more all the time.
But you know, you all can research yourselves about DS. What can I share with you? Well I can tell you about my little Liam and the wonderful person he is becoming. Because while you may care for him and our family, while you may say hi to him and see the pictures I post, most of you don't know the real Liam. The Liam that shines through when he is with people he is familiar with. Cause many of you have offered to hold him or play with him and then seen as he clings to me and makes whimpering sounds. Or sometimes being around a group of kids he often sits and takes it all in without doing much.
Liam plays hide and seek with Lupe and let's out a hearty "ahhhh!" screech when someone is found. He will bring me a book and then sit in my lap and keeps scooting himself against me, as if he can't get close enough. He is ticklish on his belly and neck and will giggle hysterically. He is fascinated by his sisters belly button. He gives great hugs and slobbery kisses. Today I asked him if he was my snuggle bug and he gave me a big smile. He listens and understands more than anyone realizes. Once we were in front of the house and a woman was getting into her car while talking on her cell phone and said bye and she was I don't know how far away but Liam started waving. He has good hearing and understanding. I can't count how many songs he can do the hand movements to now. He's just super awesome all around and I love him so!