You can change the world.

A few weeks ago, I received an email from Liz Collin, news reporter for WCCO, asking to do another story on Jack’s Basket.  She changed our lives and the growth of Jack’s Basket with the first story she did in 2014 and I was so excited to hear from her!    

She had received an email from a young man that was in the audience of an event I had done in January 2016.  After the event, I got an opportunity to talk with him and his family which included his parents and his younger brother, Logan, who happens to have Down syndrome.  He wondered what his brother was thinking as I recited the sad statitics that those uniquely created with an extra 21st chromosome like Jack and his brother, were among the identified population that is decreasing by 30% as a result of prenatal screening.  At that moment, I could tell that what broke his heart was going to drive his passion. The wheels were turning on how he could help change the world.  

Fast forward to February 2017, Jordan was about to turn 18 years old.  Most 18 year olds are spending their hard earned (or not) money on clothes, entertainment, or social activities.  Jordan explained to Liz that he planned to donate $1500 of his money he earned from his part time job to Jack’s Basket.  “The main reason I am donating is for the love I have in the mission of Jack’s Basket’s work and the love I have for my younger brother.  I want to inspire others my own age that you’re never too young to make a difference your own community or world.”

I read what Jordan wrote and tears streamed down my face.  I was in complete awe that he was encouraged by the work that has been done with Jack’s Basket and he wanted to be a part of it.  I’m so encouraged by his selfless act and continue to reflect on the daily sacrifice he made to give so much of his money. To hear of his love for Logan and his desire to honor him by giving this huge donation to Jack’s Basket was so humbling and inspiring.  What an amazing kid.  

On March 9th, WCCO ran the story on the 10 o’clock news and again the following morning.  I loved how they perfectly told the story how each of these boys (Logan and Jack) have made a positive impact on our lives and how Jack’s Basket is reaching the medical community by emphasizing the need for changes in the way a Down syndrome diagnosis is given to new families.  

The following day, ABC News reached out and asked to interview me for a story.  You can read that article and view the video here.  My prayer is that more and more people will hear the message that babies with Down syndrome deserve to be celebrated like any other birth and that society will see how people with Down syndrome make a positive impact on the world!  

After this week, my eyes are oh so tired but my heart is filled with hope that each of us can be reminded that we CAN CHANGE THE WORLD!  Nice work Jordan, Logan, and Jack, you are doing just that!