This post is also something I thought I would never do, as this blog pertains to motorcycle riding, and the things that surround it. (Don't worry, I'm weaving that in later!) I also want you to know that this is on a personal level, which I had planned to try and keep a little on the private side,but life has many twists and turns as you are about see!
I have 3 children, (if you didn't already know) 2 boys & 1 girl-24, 22, & soon-to-be 21!
In 1987 I was only 21 when I had my 2nd son, Mark. He was born with Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21). Which means he has an extra chromosone in the 21st set. (For those of you who don't know-we have 46 chromosones-23 from each parent-which equals into 23 pairs!)
He was also born with one lung, (the right one), which also came with a few other problems which required a few surgeries. Some of which were rarely done at the time, so we spent the first 6 years of his life in & out of U.C.S.F. Medical Center. His lung has grown enough to encompass the cavity for the loss of the left one, which is incredible!
(I had to take pics of old pics-sorry!)
I can sit here all day and go into detail, but that's not the point of this post!
Why am I telling you this, and what is the point? Because he has truly been a 'gift', 'a blessing in disguise', and has touched many lives. Anyone & everyone who has ever came into his/our life, is going away never forgetting what an impact he has made on them, (trust me!)
Another reason for this post, is I came across a blog called Days with Dylan which made my jaw drop! Her name is Laurie who's 2nd child was born with Down Syndrome! Now this brings me to this point; she is blogging about her life, his life, and how they are dealing with this. I wish I had the technology & the knowledge of today when I had Mark. I felt alone, scared, and into the unkown. (It's only been 22 yrs.) but technology and doctors have come a long way since.
So I feel compelled to want to 'help' her in some way, but some things are left to 'Life' itself, and I can only give her words of encouragement. In some unkown way, I have been inspired to write about Mark because of her, and my heart tells me to share this....why? I don't know, but I'm doing it! (The Man upstairs works in mysterious ways).
Mark is the highlight of our lives, he has a great sense of humor and keeps us on our toes! Sometimes we reflect on what would be if he didn't have Down Syndrome,but that's a subject that is short-lived!
He has graduated all classes needed and we are researching other recources available that provide more schooling and social outtings.On that note-he has taken an interest in taking rides with Dad! Don't worry, he hangs on encredibly well! (My husband says he leans on him pretty good!)
I told you I would tie in the motorcycle! We've actually thought about a side-car now!
I told you I would tie in the motorcycle! We've actually thought about a side-car now!I know I have probably left you with un-answered questions, and why I choose to blog about motorcycles instead of other things. After life hands hands you a full deck, you learn how to deal...
If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me at smbikermomma@gmail.com I will be more than happy to answer!
Until the next time.....Happy Trails my friends!
