“I am! The moment he looked into my eyes I knew.” – Dylan’s mommy
Celebrating the Journey: Parenting with Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome is the largest chromosomal genetic disorder that is caused by the presence of all or part of the third copy of chromosome 21. It is usually associated with physical growth delays, mild to moderate intellectual disability, and characteristic facial features. The extra chromosome is believed to occur by chance, with no known behavioral activity or environmental factor that changes the probability. People living with DS often experience low muscle tone, looseness of the ligaments that cause increased flexibility in the joints, developmental delay, cognitive delay, sensory issues, processing challenges and so much more.
Because of some of the above circumstances, maintaining healthy nails can be a challenge. A device like ClipDifferent’s Junior (for kids) or Pro (for adults) simplifies the routine task for people living with Down Syndrome by offering a non-threatening, gentle, quiet, durable, automatic solution at the touch of a button.
“Clipping fingernails can be such a challenge and it was such a wonderful experience the first time I tried the ClipDifferent Junior automatic nail clipper with my son. Of course, I prepared him first, showing him what to expect and before I knew it, we were cutting all his fingernails and he was smiling! ClipDifferent is a truly remarkable breakthrough for children with sensory and/or dexterity issues!”
- GiGi’s Gala ClipDifferent Basket
- GiGi’s Gala
- Noelle & Lynne at GiGi’s Gala
Gigi Playhouse, with 48 locations across the US, “We change lives through consistent delivery of free educational, therapeutic-based and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community, through a replicable playhouse model.”
Gigi’s recent “i have a Voice” gala in the Twin Cities was attended and supported by ClipDifferent. The same gala is in 36 cities, two countries during 2020. Please support and visit if you have the opportunity.
“My doctor didn’t even suspect the diagnosis. The nurse said to me, “Since you said something, we are going to call the doctor.” I already knew in my heart that he had Down Syndrome. Intuitively I knew before he was born and felt honored to be chosen to be this child’s mother – I could handle it. I had several years’ experience working in group homes and hospital settings with challenged children and adults. I had such a passion for making a difference in their lives and knew I would be the same as a parent raising a child with special needs.” -Lynne Striker, Dylan’s mom and part of the #ClipDifferent team.
If you or someone you love lives with Down Syndrome, reach out to Lynne. She has a deep care for helping people live better lives and welcomes any and all inquiries.
A huge shout out & thank you to Advocate Medical Group, Adult Down Syndrome Center for sharing ClipDifferent’s story with your community. Their center is located just outside Chicago in Park Ridge, IL and serves clients 12+, and families & caregivers offering a team approach to provide comprehensive, holistic, community-based health care services. It’s clinics like yours creating a more inclusive world.
Thank you,
ClipDifferent Team