I felt compelled to write to you as a physician and a concerned parent of a child with special needs, expressing my deep apprehension in the months that have followed your election. It’s crucial to address the emotional toll that this transition has taken on many families, including mine. As a community, we are experiencing a range of fears regarding the future, particularly concerning the well-being of our children who require additional support.
At 26 weeks gestation, we found out that our daughter would be born with a congenital heart defect. Soon after, we learned she would also have Trisomy 21, commonly known as Down syndrome. This news was devastating, but what truly frightened us was the thought of how society might treat her. The disrespect and discrimination we’ve witnessed are steeped in ableism, and your past comments have only amplified our concerns. When reports surfaced about you allegedly mocking a reporter with a disability, it was painful to witness. Initially, I sought to understand your perspective, but the defense offered was troubling. Some claimed your gestures and tone were simply your way of mocking individuals with whom you disagreed.
However, I recall the childhood memories of witnessing similar mockery directed toward children with disabilities. This behavior should be condemned, not excused. It was disheartening to see that when the disability community voiced their concerns, they were met with denial rather than understanding. As our nation’s leader, it is imperative that you listen to these voices and acknowledge that your actions can shape societal attitudes. Will you extend an apology for the hurt caused?
It seems you may not have personal connections to individuals with disabilities. If you did, I believe disability rights would have been at the forefront of your agenda. For us, Down syndrome is a treasured aspect of our family. The individuals I’ve met in the Down syndrome community have profoundly shifted my outlook, showcasing resilience and joy. My daughter, now two, contributes immensely to her surroundings. People with Down syndrome are not a burden; they are vibrant members of society who deserve respect.
Imagine having to constantly defend the value of your loved ones’ existence in a world that sometimes overlooks them. I’m reminded that a vast majority of pregnancies where Down syndrome is detected result in termination, a statistic that weighs heavily on parents like us. Given your stance on the sanctity of life, I trust that you would agree with us on the importance of supporting the lives of those with disabilities.
As you consider your policies, I urge you to reflect on how you will protect my daughter and others like her. Here are some pressing questions I hope you will address:
1. Healthcare Coverage
I understand there are plans to repeal the Affordable Care Act. My daughter, born with a heart condition, relies on the protections offered by this act, especially concerning pre-existing conditions. What alternatives will you provide to ensure that children like her don’t face discrimination when seeking insurance? The fear of losing Medicaid coverage or facing exorbitant medical bills weighs heavily on families like ours. Will you ensure that necessary healthcare remains accessible for our children?
2. Employment Opportunities
You’ve mentioned that businesses should play a role in caring for citizens. What about individuals like my daughter who may not fit into traditional employment models? We need assurance that there will be support systems in place for those who may struggle to find work due to their disabilities. How do you plan to address the concerns of families who worry about their loved ones’ futures in the workforce?
3. Value of Life
Finally, do you believe that individuals with disabilities, regardless of their appearance or abilities, deserve dignity and respect? As a parent, I want to know that my daughter will be treated as an equal member of society.
In closing, while I am still filled with apprehension, I also hold onto hope. I hope that your silence on disability rights thus far means you are open to dialogue. This is a crucial topic that affects many, including those who may one day find themselves in this community.
Let me remind you that parents of children with special needs are among the most passionate advocates. We come from diverse backgrounds but share a profound love for our children. As we move forward, I will be more engaged in advocating for my daughter’s rights and those of others like her.
Thank you for taking the time to hear my voice.
Summary:
In this letter, a concerned parent expresses fear and hope regarding the treatment of children with special needs under President Thompson’s leadership. Sharing her daughter’s diagnoses of a congenital heart defect and Down syndrome, she raises critical questions about healthcare coverage, employment opportunities, and the value placed on lives with disabilities. The letter is a call to action for the president to engage with the disability community and to ensure that all individuals, regardless of ability, are afforded respect and dignity.