Having a baby with Down syndrome is not something most parents would willingly choose. Yet many who travel this path discover rich, unexpected rewards along the way. In this candid and poignant collection of personal stories, sixty-three mothers describe the gifts of respect, strength, delight, perspective, and love, which their child with Down syndrome has brought into their lives. The contributors to this collection have diverse personalities and perspectives, and draw from a wide spectrum of ethnicity, world views, and religious beliefs. Some are parenting within a traditional family structure; some are not. Some never considered terminating their pregnancy; some struggled with the decision. Some were calm at the time of diagnosis; some were traumatized. Some write about their pregnancy and the months after giving birth; some reflect on years of experience with their child. Their diverse experiences point to a common truth: The life of a child with Down syndrome is something to celebrate. These women have something to say--not just to other mothers but to all of us.
Gifts
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Book Description
(2008 National Parenting Publications Awards (NAPPA): Gold Award; 2008 Mom's Choice Awards: Silver Recipient, Special & Exceptional Needs; 2008 Nautilus Award: Silver Winner, Memoir/Personal Growth)
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Editorial Reviews
Review
Gifts is a poignant and inspirational collection of stories written by mothers of children with Down syndrome. These mothers, each with a unique story, graciously and honestly offer us a glimpse of their journey. Some describe the raw anguish felt upon learning that their child had Down syndrome, their sense of loss and even despair. Many speak of the fierce protection they provide their child in terms of advocacy and education of others, and how they, as mothers, have grown strong and assertive in providing for their children's needs. All talk of unyielding love and admiration for their children and the joy the children have brought to their lives.
Written to help others who are experiencing similar circumstances, Gifts explores relationships between a parent and child, with siblings and with the larger community. It tells of the 'light burning brightly' and 'the tiny hands of comfort' offered by the child with Down syndrome. It shares stories of families who are reveling in the journey that they had once feared.
This book will accompany the reader long after it is placed on the bookshelf. The advice and resources provided will help many, and the theme of determination will inspire all to cheer for those with Down's, as well as their families. A companion volume is in the works offering more stories of love, acceptance and hope.
I thoroughly enjoyed this paperback book. Not often can a book touch one s heart--I found, more than once, a tear in my eye and a smile on my lips. It is a testament to what can be accomplished with love, patience and determination and will be an invaluable resource for anyone associated with the care of individuals with Down syndrome. --ADVANCE for Occupational Therapy Practitioners, July 7, 2008<br /><br />A beautiful book that provides insight into family life with Down syndrome; recommended for public libraries. --Library Journal Xpress Reviews, June 12, 2007<br /><br />This fine book helps dispel the fear and misinformation about Down syndrome that many parents and prospective parents face. As these deft essays convey, the world would be a sweeter place with more Down syndrome citizens, not fewer. --George F. Will
GIFTS is a recipient of the prestigious Mom's Choice Award. The Mom's Choice Awards honors excellence in family-friendly media, products, and services. An esteemed panel of judges includes education, media and other experts as well as parents, children, librarians, performing artists, producers, medical and business professionals, authors, scientists and others. A sampling of the panel members inlcudes: Dr. Twila C. Liggett, Ten-time Emmy-winner, professor and founder of Reading Rainbow; Julie Aigner-Clark, Creator of Baby Einstein and The Safe Side Project; Jodee Blanco New York Times Best-Selling Author; LeAnn Thieman, Motivational speaker and coauthor of seven Chicken Soup For The Soul books; Tara Paterson, Certified Parent Coach, and founder of the Mom's Choice Awards. Parents and educators look for the Mom's Choice Awards seal in selecting quality materials and products for children and families. This book/product has been honored by this distinguished award. --Mom's Choice Awards
About the Author
Kathryn Lynard Soper is the mother of seven children. Her youngest, Thomas, born in 2005, was diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth. Kathryn received a BA in English from Brigham Young University in 1993. She is president of Segullah Group, Inc., a non-profit producer of personal writings, and is editor of Segullah, a literary journal by and for Latter-day Saint (Mormon) women. She is currently writing a memoir about her first year with Thomas. Kathryn lives with her husband, Reed, and their children in the mountain west.
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
48 of 48 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
I am the father of an 18 year old daughter with DS and am physician in chief of Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. GIFTS is one of the most inspiring books I have read. And I am not noted for being a warm, fuzzing, sensitive guy; in fact, recently my wife said that I scored quite low on the "sensitivity scale." I have given copies of GIFTS to about 50 new parents of babies with DS at our IDSF (Indiana Down Syndrome) and DADS (Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome) functions and when babies with DS have been admitted to Riley Hospital, usually for open heart surgery. The response from these parents has been one of the most amazing things I have observed. One mother told me that this book is exactly what she needed when she was having such emotional difficulties shortly after the birth of their new baby. I bought another 100 copies of GIFTS and will give a copy to any parent of a baby with DS or who is pregnant with a baby with DS. Rich Schreiner, Indianapolis IN
Rich Schreiner | 06.14.07 - 9:45 am |
Rich Schreiner | 06.14.07 - 9:45 am |
22 of 22 people found the following review helpful
By Tammy
Format:Paperback
As a parent of a child with Down Syndrome, it's very hard to find "inspirational" stories. All the physicians have negative viewing materials.
This book allowed me to know, I'm not alone, it's not all bad and what a wonderful experience we all can experience if we'd shut our mouths and open our minds.
This book allowed me to know, I'm not alone, it's not all bad and what a wonderful experience we all can experience if we'd shut our mouths and open our minds.
21 of 22 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
I picked this book up and could not put it down. Even writing about it now I am crying.
I am a sibling of a Down's Syndrome Child who became a Down's Syndrome Adult. My brother died in April and it is still difficult to not break down every time I see a person with Down's Syndrome because I miss his presence on the planet.
The book is exceptionally honest. I was glad to see the book didn't back away from the question of termination of pregnancies when it is determined the baby has Down's. I was afraid it might be all like a fairy tale, "Look how happy we are with our special needs child!" and while the stories generally focused on the upbeat and gift-filled endings, there was a lot of truthfulness in the struggle.
It also shared of marraiges that failed as a result of the challenges inherent in having a child with Down's syndrome.
The photos were absolutely beautiful. There was one little girl, Madison Crouse, who could be a beauty queen. There was a family that is comprised of four adoptive children, all with Down's Syndrome and a biological child without Down's Syndrome.
My only criticism of the book is there aren't stories by people with older children with Down's. I realize it is probably because the stories were mostly (or all?) written by website contributers, but it would have been great to read a story from someone "like me" -
I am a sibling of a Down's Syndrome Child who became a Down's Syndrome Adult. My brother died in April and it is still difficult to not break down every time I see a person with Down's Syndrome because I miss his presence on the planet.
The book is exceptionally honest. I was glad to see the book didn't back away from the question of termination of pregnancies when it is determined the baby has Down's. I was afraid it might be all like a fairy tale, "Look how happy we are with our special needs child!" and while the stories generally focused on the upbeat and gift-filled endings, there was a lot of truthfulness in the struggle.
It also shared of marraiges that failed as a result of the challenges inherent in having a child with Down's syndrome.
The photos were absolutely beautiful. There was one little girl, Madison Crouse, who could be a beauty queen. There was a family that is comprised of four adoptive children, all with Down's Syndrome and a biological child without Down's Syndrome.
My only criticism of the book is there aren't stories by people with older children with Down's. I realize it is probably because the stories were mostly (or all?) written by website contributers, but it would have been great to read a story from someone "like me" -
10 of 10 people found the following review helpful
By Mary Dowling
Format:Paperback
As the Grandmother of our wonderful new baby grandson of six weeks I was anxious to find out as much as I could about Down Syndrome. However, I did not want to be swamped with so much information that might be more off putting than helpfull at this vulnerable time. Then I found this lovely book ``Gifts``where in every story told by mothers there was love and hope and great happiness. Reading the experiences of these families and how they coped with different situations made me laugh and cry but most of all what came through to me was the unfailing determination to allow the children to live a happy and fulfilled life. This book is a great insight into the lives of families with childrern with special needs and the wonderful opportunities that are available for them. I found this book very uplifting and positive - it leaves me looking forward to the future knowing that we have all the ingredients in our family to make a great life for our grandson ; A fantastic Mam and Dad, two older brothers and a big family that loves him very much.
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful
By Jen Doe
Format:Paperback
My son with Down's syndrome was recently born. I was having one of those days where I felt "down" about his Down's syndrome. My husband surprised me with the book, Gifts. I immediately started reading, and I couldn't put the book down. The book made me feel acceptance. I accepted my son straight from his birth, but I couldn't accept my own feelings. Gifts helped me to do so, because many of the mothers felt the same way I did. I no longer feel alone. I recommend this book to any mom, dad, teacher, obstetrician, etc. who is involved with a child with Down's syndrome. It is truly inspirational!
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful
By A. Soder
Format:Paperback
Not only is this an exceptional book for those of us whose lives have been touched one way or another by Down Syndrome (I noticed that many of the reviewers--like myself--have a family member with DS), but perhaps even more, I think this book is a must-read for the average Joe whose life *hasn't* been personally touched by DS. It should be in middle school and high school libraries, church libraries and reading rooms, doctor's office waiting rooms, etc. I noticed that a father (who happens to be a dr., too) of a child with DS said that he's bought numerous copies to hand out to new parents of children with DS. Perhaps this should be "required" reading for ALL new parents. I've always said that children who are kind and loving to my daughter tend to be that way because their parents have instilled those values in them. I think the more educated and understanding adults/parents are about children with DS, the more accepting and loving other children will be to our special children.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
I loved this book
This book has some very positive and reassuring stories from all sorts of moms with all sorts of kids. Read more
Published 2 months ago by KWun
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful Book!!
My aunt and uncle gave me this book after my little son was born with down syndrome about a year ago. I simply couldn't get enough of it! Read more
Published 18 months ago by Sara
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best book ever!
My son is 6 months old and was born with Down Syndrome, this book by far has been the biggest help to me as far as coping goes. Read more
Published 20 months ago by Melissa M Owens
5.0 out of 5 stars
PRICELESS BOOK!
This is a MUST HAVE! Keep a stock of these on hand to give. The #1 book to give and get. Words can not even describe how meaningful this book is. Don't hesitate- just get it.
Published on December 25, 2010 by Ian's parents
5.0 out of 5 stars
Awesome!
The book came quickly in perfect condition - it was a recommended book and will benefit many of our mothers here at church.
Published on May 18, 2010 by Fred Beasley
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Wake Up Call Amidst a Sient Genocide
What I read of this book was beautiful....
As per a 10/22/09 article in First Things by Archbishop Charles Chaput,
* "medical professionals now can steer an... Read more
As per a 10/22/09 article in First Things by Archbishop Charles Chaput,
* "medical professionals now can steer an... Read more
Published on January 5, 2010 by Joseph P. Tevington
5.0 out of 5 stars
Must have for all new parents with a child with Down Syndrome
This is an absolutely heartwarming (and tearjerking...in a good way) book that all new parents with a child with Down Syndrome should have. Read more
Published on August 23, 2009 by Happy Mom
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent uplifting stories
What wonderful uplifting stories of children with Down Syndrome. This would be an excellent gift for parents or grandparents of someone with Down Syndrome. Read more
Published on August 19, 2009 by Annie
5.0 out of 5 stars
You definately NEED to read this book!
This is an incredibly wonderful collection of personal stories, from families, about their feelings when they were given the diagnosis of Down syndrome. Read more
Published on June 14, 2009 by Reader Bird
4.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful gift
This book has been a beautiful gift for people who have helped our organization. We serve individuals with Down syndrome, but have many volunteers who have never had any contact... Read more
Published on May 22, 2009 by J. Perkins
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