Shout Your Worth

03/09/2022

We’re just shy of 2 weeks away from celebrating World Down Syndrome Day!

On the heels of the World Health Organization’s recent article that includes Down Syndrome as a birth defect, I think it’s even more important than ever to advocate for those with different abilities and remind the world that people like our little man Luke are different, not defective.

Head over to our little shop on Bonfire and grab your shirt today to rock it on WDSD, and everyday.

🤎🤍🖤💜💙💚💛🧡❤️

We’re all a little different. That’s what makes us beautiful. . In 2022, the WHO released an article that counted Down Syndrome among its list of “birth defects”. The...

02/06/2022

Big dreams for this little world changer 🌎💙💛

As for me, I pray that you always know your value and your worth. I pray that you dream big - that you realize you are so full of potential…

01/22/2022

Eeeek. I’ve taken a hugeeeee break from writing and posting on the Shout Your Worth blog because honestly, life has just been very busy and super exhausting. But I’ve been feeling this tug to get back to it and so I listened.

To get back in the swing of it, today I wrote about self-care and parenting (but really, parenting in general). If you’re a parent and you’re struggling with setting aside some time for yourself, I hope you take a peek at the blog (https://www.shoutyourworth.org/blog/self-care-and-special-needs) and feel encouraged to make your own mental and physical health a priority the same way you do your family. ❤️

Got a great self-care routine? I’d love to hear it! Let me know your favorite ways to keep yourself sane in the comments 👇🏼🥰

11/09/2020

We just couldn't let this weekend come to and end without a huuuuuugeeee shoutout and CONGRATULATIONS to Chris Nikic for making Ironman history and becoming the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman Triathlon.

You're an inspiration, Chris!

This weekend, the Down syndrome community and the world cheered on a man named Chris Nikic; the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman Triathlon…

11/07/2020

GO CHRIS!!!!!

07/20/2020

Those little noises might not sound like anything special to most, but we have been working 𝑆𝑂 hard with Luke trying to show him how we move our mouths to make consonant sounds. He finally started making “m” and “b” sounds this week and I just want to listen to him talk at us all day 😍

07/18/2020

New post on the blog, dedicated to the special needs mom who feels overwhelmed...

You aren’t alone. I see how hard you work. I see how much you do to make sure you’re giving your kiddo the best possible start in life. I see your passion. I see your advocacy. I see your exhaustion.

This journey we’re on with our kids is different than we thought it would be; it’s beautiful in it’s own unique and incredible way. But man, it’s overwhelming sometimes. Isolating, even.

Don’t forget to put yourself first too. To prioritize what YOU need. Take breaks for your mental health. You deserve to be poured into as much as you pour out to everyone around you ❤️

https://www.shoutyourworth.org/blog/to-the-special-needs-mom

07/16/2020

Hey everyone 👋🏼👋🏼
We’ve been a little quiet on social media lately. Between therapies, and doctors appointments, and appointments to make appointments... it’s been hectic. And if I’m being real - I’ve needed the social media break because my anxiety has been in full force and I think we can all agree social media doesn’t do much for mental health in general lol.
But with that being said, mark your calendars for a fresh blog post comin at ya on Saturday 😉

06/21/2020

In honor of Luke turning 6 months old, I decided to a special “all things Luke” post on the blog this week!
Life has been a little crazy lately with appointments, therapy, appointments to adjust the therapy... all the things 🤪
But I can say that I finally feel like I’m settling into this role as a mom of a kiddo with special needs. Not that it’s harder, it’s just different.
Learning about the therapies he needs, the specialists we need to see, and Down syndrome in general has made the first few months with Luke feel a little hectic if I’m being honest.
But it’s also been SO beautiful. I couldn’t be more thankful to be a part of a community of individuals who are inspiring, strong, supportive, and kind. I’m thankful for the friendships and connections we’ve already made, and for the strong parents who have gone before us and lovingly come alongside us as we navigate this new road.
Happy 6 months to Luke — thank you for being our tour guide on this unexpected, but absolutely incredible journey 💙💛
https://www.shoutyourworth.org/blog/lukes-story-six-month-update

06/18/2020

This cutie patootie had his six month appointment today and all is well!
We left the appointment with referrals in hand for audiology, ophthalmology, and physical therapy, as well as an order for labs.
Any experienced mamas have tips and tricks for us as we get ready to meet with more docs and draw labs? Let me know!