A Letter From Dad: Jacob

Dear Levi,

From the moment you were born, you changed me forever. I still remember the second you entered this world and your mom stretched out her arms and said, loud enough for the whole hospital floor to hear, “You’re perfect!” She was absolutely right. You were perfect then, and you are perfect now.

Levi, you make me a better person when you slow down. When you think first, and act second, you teach me how to do that, too! You remind me to revisit my perspective on things from many different lenses, and I am a better person for it. You have given me a new approach to life since the day you arrived. Levi, parenting you has taught me to be grateful for every single second of the day. Even when it feels so hard or I’m completely exhausted, seeing you move, walk, laugh, or play makes it all worth it.

One thing I’d like the world to know about being a parent of a child with Down syndrome, Levi, is that getting to meet someone with Down syndrome is already really awesome – but it’s like 500 times cooler actually getting to parent you, too! It’s a blessing I didn’t even know I needed. Now that I do, I can’t imagine my world without that gift, and without YOU!

One of my favorite memories with you was when I went into your classroom on World Down Syndrome Day to read to the class. You sat next to me as we read books about Down syndrome, and you were so proud, excited, open, curious, and caring! Your class mirrored your energy and gave us their undivided attention. I’ll never forget the pride you had from just being yourself, and I was equally proud to be there with you!

I want you to know how special it is to be a part of the Jack’s Basket community. Changed everything. From basket drop off by Jenny Thuene to a mentor/coaching relationship with Carissa, it has fueled my passion for the Down syndrome community and drive to be the best dad-vocate I can be for you. 

Levi, one thing I never want you to forget is this: I will fight for you, always. I will fight for you to get what you need, to see what you want to see, and to learn how you want to learn.

I love you, Levi!
Dad