Daughter with down syndrome is productive citizen

There have been a couple of letters lately that have touched on the subject of Down syndrome. I am moved to comment on my personal experience.

I have four children and I am proud of each of their individual achievements.  That includes my second child, Becky, who was born more than 30 years ago with Down syndrome.  We received counseling (unsolicited) regarding the advisability of institutionalizing her.  We gave it not a moment's consideration.

Everything has been more difficult for Becky, including life itself. She had intestinal surgery on day two and spent the first month of her life in the neo-natal ICU before we could take her home. She had open heart surgery at the age of 5 months.

Learning to sit up, walk, talk, read — everything was more difficult, but she overcame it all.  It took extra years, but she graduated from Southeast Polk High School, where she was a cheerleader and performed in musicals.  Since graduation she's held a regular job in food service at Prairie Meadows. 

She pays taxes. She contributes her time and money to charities. She loves karaoke and dance and is the world's greatest hugger.  

In other words, she's a contributing member to society. Questioning someone's "value" because they may look or talk different is really narrow minded and non-productive.

Becky has been and is a blessing to our lives and a productive world citizen.

— Mike Mally, Des Moines