I have always had big dreams for my children. Above all else, however, is for them to be kind and caring individuals who lead happy, fulfilled lives. When Kelly was little I used to say that she would someday have a full-time job and we would go our separate ways each day and come back together for dinner.

It is not that some people with Down syndrome don’t have this life; it is just that it became clear to me when Kelly was in high school that this vision of Kelly’s life was not coming together. Let’s face it, the employment opportunities for our adults with disabilities are scarce at best and the ones that came along were not the best fit for Kelly and her talents.

It was at this point that I had to start to think “outside the box”. I was not going to go off to work each day and have her sitting at home by herself. I wasn’t going to quit my job and sit alongside her either. So, we came up with the idea to make jewelry because it is what Kelly likes. Kelly also had the abilities with fine motor to make the jewelry and, most importantly, it was what Kelly wanted to do. She also possessed the ability to be independent at making jewelry and do it for an extended length of time. So, here we are, doing what we are good at and love.

In our spare time Kelly and I speak about the abilities and talents of individuals with Down syndrome. We share our story and facts about Down syndrome to increase awareness and to inspire people to go for their dreams and to not let anything stand in their way. We are public speakers and we speak at schools, hospitals and churches. We love to show people what Kelly has accomplished and to inspire them to see all people with disabilities for what they can do rather than what they cannot do.

I had dreamed of a happy, productive, and caring daughter and that is exactly what I have! My heart is full!

Karen