Celebrate Down Syndrome: Celebrate Down Syndrome

Rock-of-Ella's

Donate to Rock-of-Ella's

Team Goal: $2000.00

Amount Raised So Far: $3045.00

Rosella Elizabeth came to us on February 11^th, 2011- a complete surprise.  At age 27, she was my sister’s first child, my parent’s first grandchild, and the first baby to enter into our circle of friends.  To say the least, we were all shocked.  Over the past 2 months we have had to opportunity to get to know “Ella” and get to know about Down Syndrome.  We feel so blessed to have been given such a special gift.  So blessed that Ella’s dad, Brian, decided we should change the name from Down syndrome to Up syndrome since Ella has already brought so much joy to our lives. 

She was diagnosed at birth, and the official results were confirmed at 1 week.  She weighed in at only 5lbs. 4 0z and struggled initially with low blood sugars and oxygen saturations.  She spent the first week of her life in the NICCU.  Since her arrival home she has done nothing but blossom.  She has proven to have a strong heart, healthy lungs, and feisty attitude.  She is an excellent eater.  At her last doctor’s visit she weighed--- and is out of newborns and into 3 months already.  She has been evaluated by IU13 and dubbed a “social butterfly.”  She enjoys wearing pink and purple outfits, changing outfits frequently- including accessories, spending time with mommy and daddy, late night exercise sessions, and most of all singing old American classics like “The Wabash Cannon Ball.” 

Naturally we have fallen head over heels in love with her.  We want what’s best for her and know that starting her early into a great organization like Celebrate Down Syndrome, Inc. will offer her the opportunities she will need to continue to grow in a supportive environment.  We are looking forward to the opportunity to meet other families with Down syndrome members and hear about their stories and successes.  We also would like the opportunity to give back and to help new families who may have also been “surprised” cope with their difficulties. 

Our immediate family would like to thank all of our extended family and friends, and really the whole community, who reached out to us in our time of need and transition.  We encourage anyone who can to participate in the 3-2-1 Go! walk on May 7^th in honor of Rosella and all the other children who have special needs.  Having Ella in our lives has opened so many new doors for us and has helped our eyes and hearts to see what they had missed before.  We know that her life will fill ours with deeper meaning and joy. 

After only 2 months we are all convinced that Ella is on her way UP from here!! 

Please come out an join us, 

The Caldwell Family

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