Being Proud of Who I Am

My name is Amy and I have Down syndrome. I was born with it – it’s part of me and part of my disability, but it’s also part of who I am. I’m proud of who I am.

When I was growing up I sometimes felt different from other children. I went to a special needs school and there were times when I was bullied, which wasn’t very nice. Some things were harder for me when I was younger. I couldn’t read or write at first and I found things like counting money difficult. But my mum helped teach me when I was little, and over time I learned those skills. Now I can read and write and I’m really proud of that.

When I was four years old I had an operation on my heart. My family supported me a lot when I was growing up and helped me learn things like cooking and everyday skills.

When I was nineteen I went to college in Wales. That was very different from where I grew up in Sutton Coldfield because it was in the countryside and much quieter, with less traffic. It was a new experience for me and I learned a lot while I was there.

I came to the Lisieux Trust in 2007 and it has helped me learn many new things. The staff help me a lot and support me with safety when I go out. I can’t really go out on my own, but with staff I can go out and do lots of things.

Since living here I’ve learned new skills like cooking and road safety. When I was younger I couldn’t do those things, but now I can do much more.

Some things are still difficult for me, but I keep learning. Having Down syndrome is part of me, and I’m proud of who I am.

Sections of this were made with AI Assistance