Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day
In honor of World Down Syndrome Day, I wanted to share my personal journey with my son Jace.
Jace came into this world in October of 2014, and 12 hours after his birth we were informed of his Down Syndrome diagnosis. Jace spent the first 10 days of his life in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and during that time we quickly had to adjust and come to terms with his diagnosis.
I have to admit, I really struggled with Jace’s diagnosis in the beginning. I worried a lot about the future and the fear of the unknown – which I now know are normal thoughts that many parents have when they find out their child has a disability.
Jump forward 9 years, and Jace is rocking it! He is in Grade 4 and an active participant in his class. Outside of school, he loves horseback riding and participating in sports. He currently plays hockey every weekend with a great organization, SuperHEROS. They provide the ability to play hockey to kids with disabilities who don’t normally have the chance. He also plays in a similar baseball league in the summer.
Commvault has been incredibly supportive over the years, giving me the flexibility I need to help Jace. And joining our CapAbilities Employee Resource Group (ERG) has been an amazing way for me to share my story with my fellow Vaulters and raise awareness. Our CapAbilities ERG’s mission is to create a safe and empathetic space where Vaulters with disabilities, caregivers, and allies can openly and honestly have discussions and drive change together.
This past November, Commvault once again sponsored a table at PREP’s annual fundraiser, Let’s Talk Hockey, a night with members of the Calgary Flames NHL team. I attended the event with some of my team members and customers, too – all proceeds went directly to the PREP foundation. Jace would not be in the place he is today without the support he receives from PREP.
On World Down Syndrome Day, I’m celebrating by wearing my funky or mismatched socks to recognize how Jace’s extra chromosome makes him extra perfect in our eyes. My goal is to continue to spread awareness and provide opportunities for Jace, and other children like him, to live their best lives and make a difference in this world. Every life deserves to be celebrated.