A new beginning
As many of you know, in December 2011, I published “I
Live with Peter Pan”. It was a book meant to help explain what Down syndrome was to
young kids and to help open conversation about the diagnosis.
You see, I look at Peter
Pan as this amazing character who was a leader, who loved and enjoyed life to
its fullest…not someone that wouldn’t grow up…he just didn’t want to grow up
because he loved his world and the way he looked at life. A child with Down syndrome has these
adventurous, childlike characteristics like Peter Pan, not to say that he
wouldn’t grow up or want to…just that he enjoys life to the fullest. This love of life he has will help
families slow down a little and find joy even in the smallest things. When I explained that analogy to my
kids…they got it. They understood
what Down syndrome was in their own language.
I was so excited to get the
book into everyone’s hands that I neglected to ask for feedback from the very
families that the book would be helping.
Some of the words I chose in writing the book caused a few issues
regarding stereotypes, which was not my intention. So, I met with several moms
that have kids with Down syndrome - the “Sisterhood” - to help me correct the
wording.
I couldn’t be more excited
about this book! With the help of
the “Sisterhood”, Jason Batt and Earl Musick, I believe that the changes in
this new edition meets the intended goal to make this book a wonderful tool for
families who are blessed with a child who has Down syndrome. With their input, I believe “My Brother
Fights Pirates (well…kind of)” encompasses my original intent and desire to
help educate what Down syndrome is from a child’s perspective. Thank you for
your understanding and support!
