Has never stopped him bringing fun and joy to his family
wee character, mischief.
“His development was a bit slower than other babies, but through the charity Down’s Syndrome Scotland, which has branches all over the country, I was able to meet parents from my local Grampian branch and that’s the best support any parent with a Down’s Syndrome child, will ever find.
“There is no better way to find out the practicalities of life with Down’s Syndrome, than to speak to those who know through their own experience”
Tonight, Sandfest 2018, starring The Bluebells, Justin Currie, James Grant, Clare Grogan and Grahame Skinner, launch a celebrated mix of Scottish pop from the ’ 80s at Glasgow Concert Hall in aid of Down’s Syndrome Scotland before Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week and World Down’s Syndrome Day on Wednesday.
In July, Glasgow is to host the World’s Down Syndrome Congress.
There are varying degrees of disability with Down’s Syndrome and each child is unique. It can be detected in the womb through
full
of fun and amniocentesis tests offered to mums-to-be around 16 to 18 weeks into pregnancy.
This involves removing a sample of amniotic fluid that surrounds the b a by w h i c h can detect abnormalities including Spina Bifida, Down’s Syndrome and other chromosomal defects.
Diane said: “I was 26 years old when I was expecting Leithen and other tests showed that I was low risk for problems. I didn’t have the amniocentesis test because I had no intention of terminating my pregnancy whatever the outcome, so it would have been pointless.
“I’m afraid doctors can paint a very bleak picture for Down’s Syndrome children. I know they have to cover the worst possible scenarios, but I would urge any families who find themselves being told their unborn child h a s D ow n’s Syndrome, to talk to other parents with a Down’s Syndrome child.
“Believe me, it’s not all doom and gloom, so don’t rush to terminate the pregnancy until you’ve spoken to those who have first- hand experience.”
When eight-year-old Hayden was born, big brother Leithen was besotted with his baby sister. And as they grew up together, with only two years between them, their bond is unbreakable.
Diane said: “They adore each other, and Hayden is very much a wee mum towards him.
“They play games together, watch television, sing songs and support each other through thick and thin. She watches out for him constantly which is great.
“Sometimes they argue but that’s what kids do.
“Hayden was named carer of the years in an awards ceremony last year and we were so proud of her. She makes such a difference and helps her brother so much.
“Leithen is in mainstream school, so they both go to Gordon Primary where the staff are absolutely amazing.
“Leithen enjoys extra activities like riding, swimming, and extra reading, speech and language lessons. He’s a busy boy and he has a lot of fun.”
Meanwhile Diane is quick to point out that Down’s Syndrome is a disability, not a disease.
She said: “Every child is a person first with their own potential which they can fulfil. They are people with a disability.
“When I was expecting Hayden it did cross my mind that she, too, may be affected. But I still wouldn’t have done anything had tests shown she also had Down’s Syndrome.
“I’m extremely proud of my children – they’re decent and kind young people.
“A diagnosis of Down’s Syndrome isn’t a death sentence – it’s the start of an exciting and different young life which should be grabbed with both hands.
“I wouldn’t change a thing.”