In the recap of the reader survey in January, I let you know that I planned to discontinue Sun-Beams as a weekly feature. Going forward, Sun-Beams will be a (mostly) monthly feature, but it will remain a collection of links to stories, articles, photos, or videos I have come across that I believe will inspire, inform, or encourage you.
Principal forces student with Down syndrome to remove high school letter jacket – Sigh. If this story makes you want to Do Something (like contact the school board, principal, and anyone else in that district who will listen), my friend Courtney can help you out.
Maysoon Zayid, Comedian With Cerebral Palsy, Explains How Social Media Has Empowered Bullies – I absolutely agree with her that we are sorely lacking in compassion these days, and I think social media does have a lot to do with it, as Maysoon says. In fact, I had a whole post in the queue for today on that very topic…
10 Things I Wish I Knew About ADHD as a Child – I don’t normally include stories on ADD/ADHD, but I thought this one was particularly good from the perspective of an adult. No one in my family has been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, but Mr. Andi and both kids – especially Nathan! – show signs of it, so I’m interested in learning more.
Man with cerebral palsy completes Ironman Kona, conquers Mt. Kilimanjaro – What a great profile on a guy who’s just like everyone else…except for having cerebral palsy and that whole “willing to try an Ironman” thing. 🙂
Athletes Help Cheerleader With Down Syndrome Defy Bullies – I love, love, love this story because it’s not really about the girl with Down syndrome, it’s about the kids who go to school with her and consider her one of them.
Good morning Andi,
Enjoying your blog, as always. Just wanted to make you aware of an upcoming film that I learned about yesterday.
The film is “Where Hope Grows” and involves the positive impact a teenage boy with Down Syndrome has on others, especially a former baseball player struggling with an alcohol problem. Check out the trailer on You Tube.
The film opens May 15 and our family, including my 19 year old son, Brennan (who has Down Syndrome) will be going to see the film. If you think it is appropriate, please let your readers know about the film and support it. I have no connection to this film. I simply believe it reflects well on our kids and the Down Syndrome community.
Have a Happy Easter!
Bill McCarthy
Thanks, Bill! I had not heard about the film, but will definitely include it in next month’s Sun-Beams. And if anyone is reading the comments and wants to know more about it now, here’s the official website: http://www.wherehopegrowsmovie.com/
Hi Andi
I need your assistance with finding a message to your blog. One of your readers commented to me about how blessed I am with my son Brennan, who has Down Syndrome. Her comment followed my news about the upcoming film, Where Hope Grows- I am totally in agreement about being blessed daily by Brennan.
She also included a link to some site about a Down Syndrome support group. I now cannot find her message anywhere, and I save all of your blogs. Can you help and show me where this message is. I want to visit that link and also thank her for her kind words. Thanks!
Bill McCarthy
Hi Andi
Please ignore my previous request t. I found the person I was looking for. Have a very Happy Easter!!
Bill McCarthy