I have special needs. So does my wife and two girls. You see, our son Brandon was born with Downs Syndrome along with not 1 BUT 3 heart defects. As he has grown he has experience sight and hearing problems coupled with Asthma and a wide gait and dislocating knee caps. His world is complex and often a struggle at times. Having Brandon in our lives has meant we all have special needs. We are a special family!
Brandon’s anxiety and fear can be reduced by being surrounded by people that understand his challenges. Our fears of the future and feelings of isolation, meant we needed people who ‘just get it’. We found those people at Families United Network and the Bedfordshire Downs Syndrome Support Group.
F.U.N. is full of special families - just like ours. The other families may be at different stages on their journey. All with their own uniquely wonderful children - facing their own and similar challenges every day. But we’re on the same road, taking guidance and support from those ahead, and offering it to those behind. Every laugh, every cry is a step in the right direction.
‘F.U.N. provide a safe and caring environment for families like ours. They offer a wide variety of activities/events that supports and encourages the sharing of stories and strains in a relaxed, mutual environment. This is the magic of F.U.N., it’s not dictated by suits and business, it simply serves as a place of understanding, by those who understand best.
Working for the Bedfordshire Downs Syndrome Support Group gave me the insight into how difficult it is to keep a voluntary group like F.U.N going year after year. Continuing to bring in the much needed funds, not only to continue to support those still on their journey, but to reach more families in need, it is an uphill battle.
Today our family is strong and united. The support and guidance we received at F.U.N. got us through the roadworks and speed bumps. Please help them to continue supporting Families.
