Today is March 21st, which happens to be World Down Syndrome Day. This day is important to me because I have been blessed to have an extremely close friendship with my wonderful friend Amy, who was born with Down Syndrome. Having Amy in my life has changed my overall outlook on life in general and has taught me so much! I am so lucky to have Amy as my friend and I can't imagine life without her! She lifts me up whenever I'm with her and always makes me laugh and smile. Amy and I have known each other since Kindergarten and have been friends since then. She's like a sister to me. Over the years, we have made so many fun memories together. Memories I'll always cherish! Four wheeler rides at her house, football games, dance parties, pool parties, concerts, and so many laughs shared together....Amy has amazed me through all she has accomplished. In high school, she played the drums in band, was on the swim team, was a member of FCCLA (a school leadership club), participated in Special Olympics, went to prom, and so much more... Amy was involved in just about everything her friends were in high school.
I am so thankful that Amy's family was so open and determined for Amy to be involved in our community and school. It not only greatly impacted Amy's life, but so many others as well. Anyone who gets to have Amy as a friend is SO lucky! Amy was crowned Homecoming Queen our senior year of high school and battled Lyme Disease during our senior year as well. She is one amazing, strong, brave, girl! Even after graduating high school, she is still a busy girl, working and helping out around our community. Throughout my 21 years of life, Amy has been there for me through many of the ups and downs. She stood by me as one of my bridesmaids while I said "I do" on my wedding day, graduated high school with me, and she was there to wipe my tears and give me one of her sweet hugs at my Grandma Judy's funeral just a few months ago, in January. I always remind her that she is SUCH a great, loving, friend. When I look at Amy, I see my friend Amy, I don't see her for her extra chromosome. I am so thankful and lucky to be blessed with her as my friend. Amy is loved and cherished by so many people. She is a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, but most importantly to me, she is who I call my best friend. I wouldn't be the same person I am today if it weren't for this girl. One thing Amy says a lot is, "just be happy, okay?" And this reminds me to be happy and grateful for everything I am blessed to have in my life each day. Amy, I love you so much. You have taught me more about life than I could ever put in words. "Best friends forever!" as you would say! Join me in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day to raise awareness! Rock your fun, mismatched socks to celebrate the things that makes us unique! .....Check out Amy's mom, Barb's, blog here if you'd like to hear more about Amy's story and Barb's book, "Chosen for this Gift."
1 Comment
Mom
3/30/2018 05:02:33 pm
Karly I love what you wrote. It’s so genuine and from your heart. Amy is lucky to have you as her forever friend! 💕
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