World Down Syndrome Day can highlight the beauty of inclusion and the victories of advocacy. But we also need to have an honest conversation about what it means to grow old with Down syndrome.

Over a lifetime, dozens of people come and go. Some leave barely a trace, while others stay with us.

I was invited to write a story for 3.21 Canada’s Down Syndrome Magazine in their special “The Money Issue.

We received a commission.

She had come to tell me that they didn’t have any instructions on file about a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order. 

For as long as I can remember, I have been on the lookout for signs.

I think sometimes my brother is bored of me and I understand. 

Returning to art school was more challenging than I had anticipated.

Now, in midlife I find myself standing in the rubble of the expectations and promises of my early years.

The head spread open and welcomed the sun onto its bright pedals and its face browned. 

I am not sure what I have been waiting for. It could be any number of things.