Born on the twenty first day of March, Blessing was the gift that we patiently waited for nine months. The awaited moment finally arrived, and our mom delivered her safely. No prenatal depression detected on the mom during the whole journey and no complications during delivery. When Blessing arrived, she stared curiously on the hospital environment and when the nurse gave her a neonatal slap, she cried for the first time.
As the weeks passed, however, small differences began to emerge. Her eyes looked different from other children, and her developmental milestones seemed slower than expected. These signs raised concern within our family, prompting us to book an appointment with a pediatrician. When Blessing was three months old, we finally received the answer – we learned that she was born with Down syndrome.
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is an intellectual disability, that is caused by an extra somatic chromosome. Somatic chromosomes are cells that carry instructions that decide things like: Eye shape, height, how organs develop, how the body grows and functions. It is also caused by the distress caused to the mother during pregnancy, as well as being born by parents over the age of 35 years- age plays a factor in increasing the rate of non-disjunction.
The Down Syndrome Society of Kenya estimates that over 40,000 people have Down syndrome in Kenya. This accounts for 1 in every 600 to 1000 live births. Down syndrome is mostly recognized during the infancy months, and that does not make any child vulnerable enough to be mistreated.
Special Gem
Blessing’s special ability makes her the special gem that my family has been blessed with hence her beautiful name. She is an intelligent girl who is always confident whenever she needs to ask for anything. She learns through songs and mostly through imitation. Her sweet nature makes our family jovial and whenever she is not at home, the mood changes from excitement to boredom since the minister of joy at home is not around. Every time Blessing visits the family friends, the positive feedback follows. The compliments from her teacher are the best since Blessing is ever jovial and hygienic. She is loved by everyone in her life.
Love, kindness, empathy and positivity are the qualities needed to live with the kids born with down syndrome. They don’t need any luxury life for happiness or adaption. The kindness, patience shown to them during the developmental milestones, matters most to them. Blessing was never rushed. She took her first steps at three years old, walking in her own time, guided by her own courage. Throughout, she was supported and trained with love until she managed to walk without support.
Education vs. Social Beliefs
As she grew stronger and more confident, the focus naturally shifted from her early developmental milestones to her future – particularly her right to education. Article 53 of the constitution of Kenya 2010, mandates that all children should be provided with the free and compulsory primary and secondary education. That also applies to the children who are special. School exposure enables them to interact with other children and teachers, fostering social skills and a sense of belonging. The skills taught in class also equip them with independence, helping them become more self-reliant in the future.
Parents and caregivers require training, education, and ongoing support to effectively care for children with disabilities. Many caregivers lack adequate information and resources, highlighting the need for regular trainings, workshops, and community-based support systems. Empowered caregivers are better positioned to nurture, protect, and advocate for their children.
At the same time, harmful societal beliefs must be confronted. Children with disabilities should never be hidden, isolated, or denied opportunities to interact with the outside world. Labelling a child as a curse is a deeply damaging misconception that must be replaced with awareness, acceptance, and compassion.
Conclusion
Regardless of the nature of a child’s disability -physical, emotional, or intellectual – every child is special in their own way. With exposure, inclusion, and support, children with disabilities are able to discover and express their full potential. Blessing, now a confident teenage girl who can express herself and sing joyfully, stands as a powerful example of what love, patience, and inclusion can achieve.
Author: Evelyn Kumeiya is a member of the Rotaract club of Pwani University and a second-year student pursuing Bachelor of Arts in Childcare and Protection. She is passionate about children living with disability.
